The Interaction of Standards and Innovation: Hybrid Photovoltaic-thermal Collectors

Hybrid photovoltaic-thermal solar collectors (PVT collectors) convert solar radiation into both electrical power and useable heat. The goal of combining these two forms of energy conversion in one product is to increase overall efficiency by accessing a higher technical energy potential. Combining the two types of energy transformation in a hybrid product is an innovative approach that is currently entering the market in the form of several products from several producers. As a result of boundary conditions (the early stage of market diffusion and the absence of standards, norms, and certifications), there is an enormous deficit of technical information for PVT collectors. This leads to restrained policy implementation from government entities, fewer incentives for producers and more wariness on the part of the end consumer; the combination of these factors constitutes a strong market barrier. In addition, with respect to product quality labels and product certification, PVT collectors must be discussed in a sophisticated way and, therefore, require an appropriate scientific description. In this paper, possible changes and steps with regards to standards, regulations and certification procedures are suggested to provide solutions over the short, medium and long terms. In addition, an extended hybrid collector model (in analogy to the quasi-dynamic thermal performance model) is presented and proposed for implementation into the existing certification.