Enhancing hybrid air-conditioning and humidification-dehumidification desalination with photovoltaic-thermal panels: A semi-empirical analysis of innovative heat sink integration

Environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solutions for urban and industrial applications can be achieved by designing a hybrid system for energy generation, air-conditioning, and water desalination. This study examines the integration of photovoltaic-thermal panels with hybrid air-conditioning and humidification-dehumidification desalination systems. Cooling the photovoltaic-thermal panels enhances electrical efficiency, system productivity, and overall performance, improving energy use for sustainable water and energy solutions. A semi-empirical approach is used, combining experimental studies and theoretical modeling with Engineering Equation Solver software. The study investigates key parameters, including solar intensity, photovoltaic-thermal panel area, five heat sink designs, cooling air velocity, overall efficiency, and power temperature coefficient, assessing their impact on system productivity and performance. Comparative and cost-benefit analyses are conducted between the enhanced and basic systems, considering energy and cost savings. Results indicate that integrating photovoltaic-thermal panels with tilted square perforated plate with square pin fins into the hybrid system significantly enhances productivity and thermal performance. Under peak solar intensity, the system achieves a maximum freshwater production of 195 kg/h, a cooling capacity of 135 kW, a supply air temperature of 13.6 °C, 90 % relative humidity, and a coefficient of performance of 11.3. The highest electrical efficiency attained is 19 %. The cost-benefit analysis shows maximum monthly energy savings of 7,200 kWh and financial savings of 800 $ compared to the basic system.