Development of large scale photovoltaic solar chimney

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study, design, and build a large solar cell chimney aimed to be applied for buildings. Solar chimneys are particularly effective in climates that are humid and hot. They are most efficient when they are tall and wide, but not very deep, as these proportions both maximise the surface area that can absorb solar radiation and maximise the surface area in contact with the air inside the chimney. Definition of the word "large" in the construction of a solar chimney "Large" refers to a solar chimney shaft with significant height. Modules can be assembled together to achieve considerable heights, with a focus on application in vertical buildings. An experimental south facing setup 0.40 x 0.30 meters with a height of 4.60 meters was built. It uses four amorphous silicon solar cell panels, each rated at 12 watts and 17.5 volts. Thermal performance and electricity generated by each panel were measured. The results of the study show that the air temperature inside the chimney reached its highest value at 3.40 meters, with a peak temperature of 34.15 degrees Celsius. The temperatures of solar cell panels were the highest reaching 45.10 degrees Celsius at 3.40 meters height. In terms of electricity production, the lowest solar cell panel located generated the highest output, producing 5.43 watts at 3:00 p.m. due to its lower temperature compared to other panels. The average air velocity inside the chimney was measured at 0.97 meters per second at noon. These advantages clearly demonstrated that large scale solar photovoltaic building is an interesting option to apply in buildings for electricity generation, heat gain reduction and ventilation.