“Capthel”, a 66% efficient hybrid solar module and the “Ecothel” co-generation solar system

This study relates to the performance tests of a 66% efficient hybrid solar module “Capthel”, and to the economic study of the combined generation of solar electricity and hot air (“Ecothel” solar cogeneration). The authors demonstrate that a-Si:H PV modules are best suited for cogeneration because they behave as if they had a positive temperature coefficient. They report experimental results on the first prototype and describe further improvements in the design of the thermal collector. They then study the potential savings and return on investment of an “Ecothel” installation connected to the grid of a private home using electric space heating like most of the modern houses in France and a commercial building with air conditioning