NIBE Energy Systems has launched a new Photovoltaic-Thermal (PV-T) and Heat Pump solution to transform a NIBE “ground-source” heat pump product into a “multi-source” heat pump product.
NIBE PV-T collector was described as an alternative, innovative, and silent heat source for use with NIBE ground source heat pumps, removing the requirement of a ground or bore hole collector array.
The PV-T collectors produce electrical energy that can be used to operate a ground source heat pump. On a hot day, the circulating brine helps cool the PV-T panel, increasing PV-T generation efficiency.
Following successful trials in homes and public sector buildings in the UK, NIBE officially launched the technology this week. It produces two types of energy, thermal energy and electricity, by using a unique solar panel.
The system was recently successfully installed at the University of West London, made possible thanks to a £5m Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund.
Jonny Hancock, product manager at NIBE Energy Systems (UK), said: “The NIBE PV-T collector is an alternative, innovative and silent heat source for use with NIBE ground source heat pumps. The installation of a PV-T array can be utilised as a direct alternative or supplement to a traditional borehole or surface collector, while delivering the same levels of efficiency. It is also an excellent solution for when an air/water solution is not desirable.
“PV-T panels are equipped with PV cells at the front that convert sunlight into electricity. The rear consists of a thermal heat exchanger that extracts aerothermal energy from the ambient air. The operation of the heat exchanger is therefore comparable to that of an air/water heat pump, without the requirement of a mechanical fan. A PV-T system therefore works 100% silently. Depending on the heating requirements, they can replace traditional boreholes or ground arrays, minimising disruption and removing the need for extensive ground works which can be impractical on some sites.”