Design and Optimization of Concentrated Photovoltaic-Thermal Systems for Solar Hydrogen Production

Project Overview

This research addresses the critical need for green hydrogen production via solar-powered water electrolysis, aiming to improve efficiency by recovering thermal energy typically wasted in conventional photovoltaic-electrolyser systems. The project will develop sophisticated CPVT systems capable of generating both electrical and high-grade thermal energy. Special attention will be given to adapting CPVT technology to tropical and equatorial climates characterized by high diffuse solar radiation.

What You Will Do

You will focus on the design, modelling, and optimisation of CPVT systems for hydrogen production, including optical system design, thermal management approaches, and multi-physics simulations integrating optical, thermal, electrical, and electrochemical performance. You may employ tools such as EES, MATLAB/Simulink, Python, ANSYS/COMSOL, and apply physics-informed machine learning to enhance model accuracy and operational efficiency. Experimental validation may be conducted as part of the research.

Expected Outcomes

• Design and characterisation of highly efficient CPVT configurations.
• Development of detailed multi-physics simulation models capturing complex system behaviors.
• Innovative thermal energy management and photovoltaic cooling strategies.
• Improved integration of thermal energy for enhanced water electrolysis performance.
• System-level optimisation and techno-economic performance evaluation under varied irradiance conditions.

Why This Matters

As global decarbonisation targets intensify, efficient and cost-effective green hydrogen production is vital. By harnessing both electrical and thermal solar energy effectively, this project will lower hydrogen production costs and improve sustainability. Adapting CPVT technology for tropical climates expands applicability where diffuse solar radiation dominates, unlocking new potential for renewable energy adoption.