German solar thermal energy and heat storage company TWL Technologie GmbH has unveiled its new photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) panels, designed specifically to work with ground-source heat pumps.
“Unlike our competitors, we use double-glazed modules, which reduce degradation,” said Christian Holst, PVT Product Manager at TWL. “The system also features an integrated hydraulic quick-release coupling, allowing for quick and easy assembly and disassembly without the need for tools.”
The new PVT module measures 1,762 mm x 1,134 mm x 30 mm and weighs 33 kg. It includes a 450 W TOPcon photovoltaic module with a power conversion efficiency of 22.5%, an open-circuit voltage of 44.6 V, and a short-circuit current of 10.09 A.
The thermal unit within the panel can achieve a maximum thermal output of 1,100 W. Its heat exchanger, exposed to ambient air, extracts thermal energy from both the surrounding environment and waste heat produced by the photovoltaic module. This cooling effect is reported to boost the electricity yield by 5% to 10%.
The Prisma PVT RBX panel was developed in collaboration with automotive supplier Mubea, leveraging their expertise in producing cooling plates for electromobility to optimize the heat exchanger’s channel geometry. Using AI simulations, Mubea helped ensure even heat transfer, which results in a more uniform collector temperature and improved electricity output.
TWL claims that the large exchanger surface area exposed to ambient air enables the system to operate effectively with brine heat pumps as well. The modules are designed and manufactured in Germany and are now available for sale.
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