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Aim and Objectives

The overall aim of the proposed project is to characterize and optimize the innovative PV-TE-MCHP system. The specific objectives of this project are: 

1) To carry out conceptual design of the PV-TE-MCHP system. 

2) To develop a computerized optimization model based on the latest nodal analysis method for the use in characterization and optimization of the PV-TE-MCHP system. 

3) To carry out laboratory testing of the PV-TE-MCHP prototype and validate/refine the established computer model.

4) To carry out economic and environmental performance analysis.

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Innovation

From conceptual point of view, this project is the first to deliver such a unique and innovative hybrid PV-TE-MCHP system, which could achieve significantly reduced cost (around 40%) compared to the existing PV-TE systems, while its power output remains almost the same.  To give details: 

1) Placement of the PV and TE modules separately onto the MCHP evaporator and condenser can significantly reduce the use of the TE modules. 

2) Introduction of the low cost and high efficiency MCHP into the system can reduce the thermal resistance of heat flow across the PV-MCHP and MCHP-TE interfaces, and increase the heat transfer capacity of the MCHP from its evaporator to condenser (20% higher than for the existing heat pipes), thus leading to an effective PV-to-TE energy transfer. 

3) First time nodal analysis method is applied to the analysis of thermal and power performance of more complex PV-TE-MCHP system. This method will generate more realistic and accurate simulation results for the combined PV-TE-MCHP energy transfer and conversion. 

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MSCA

Impact

Enhancing the potential and future career prospects of the researcher (Dr Li)
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The proposed project will bring Dr. Li, the selected researcher into Europe. This will deliver significant benefits to the European Research in the area of solar PV/T, owing to Dr. Li's expertise in TE and integrated solar systems, which are the gaps but also most needed knowledge/skills in the European host organization. This mobility will therefore enhance the European Research Area (ERA's) excellence and competitiveness in this important sector and help improve the European society and economy. 

 

In return, the researcher will receive the systematic and high standard training at the host university and the industry partner. This will allow him to acquire specific scientific knowledge relating to PV, PV/T and heat pipes (micro-channel-based), thus enhancing the scope and level of his knowledge. 

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An innovative solar power technology for wider potential market

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The proposed project will develop an innovative solar power technology that has reduced cost compared to the existing PV-Te technologies, thus overcoming the high cost and low efficiency problems remaining with the existing PV/T systems. This will create the potential to develop innovation-based businesses in Europe, which will eventually grow the EU's economy, create employment opportunities, reduce CO2 emission, and improve the life quality and working condition of the European people. Further benefits to the ERA include: 

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1) Promoting transfer of knowledge and technology.

2) Attracting international human resources to the European science and technology.

3) Making Europe the major center of attraction to researchers from all over the world and formation of a single labor market.

4) Widening the recruitment opportunity and increasing the portability of grants. 

5) Helping the industry to develop a partnership with research centers of excellence. 

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