Conditions in which a photovoltaic system is more viable than a low-temperature solar thermal system.

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) and low-temperature solar thermal (LT-STH) are the most widely used technologies in the building sector. This study determines, depending on the most influential parameters, the conditions in which a PV system is more beneficial than a LT-STH system from an economical, energetic and environmental point of view. The parameter used for economically evaluated both technologies is the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). Moreover the Greenhouse Gas Emissions factor is employed for an environmental evaluation. The main results shown on this study reveal that in most cases PV is economically and environmentally more viable than LT-STH, although it would be necessary to analyze the particular conditions of each site.