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Last edited: 15 October 2025
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A setup that uses separate collectors for electricity and heat
A setup that combines electricity and heat collection
A photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) hybrid solar kitchen is a cooking system that integrates both photovoltaic (PV) and thermal (T) solar technologies to provide electricity and heat simultaneously. These systems are designed to maximize solar energy utilization for household cooking and related needs.
In the context of kitchens, these systems serve as the core energy generator for cooking appliances and as a source for domestic hot water, space heating, and, in advanced designs, even cooling. Unlike standalone photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal (T) systems, PV-T panels maximize the utilization of the solar spectrum, delivering higher overall energy efficiency and improved economics per unit area.
A PV-T solar kitchen is, therefore, a kitchen or cooking facility primarily powered by energy harvested and regulated through a PV-T system. These kitchens typically incorporate PV-T collectors, thermal storage, smart controllers, and compatible cooking appliances such as induction cooktops, electric ovens, and water heaters—a design that brings sustainability, reliability, and modern convenience into a single platform.
PV-T hybrid systems combine:
- Photovoltaic modules – convert sunlight into electricity for powering appliances, lighting, or induction cooktops.
- Solar thermal collectors – capture heat for cooking, boiling water, or preheating.
By merging both technologies, the kitchen can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and grid electricity.
How It Works[]
- Sunlight strikes the PV-T panel.
- The PV layer generates electricity.
- The thermal collector beneath absorbs residual heat.
- Electricity can power induction stoves, mixers, or lighting.
- Heat can be used directly for cooking or stored in insulated vessels.
Benefits[]
- High efficiency – captures both electrical and thermal energy.
- Energy independence – reduces grid reliance.
- Sustainability – lowers carbon footprint.
- Versatility – supports both direct cooking and appliance use.
Efficiency Benchmarks[]
PV-T systems dramatically outperform standalone PV or thermal systems in overall energy yield. Key performance indicators include:
| System | Electrical Efficiency | Thermal Efficiency | Combined Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard PV Panel | 15–22% | 0% | 15–22% |
| Solar Thermal Collector | 0% | 60–75% | 60–75% |
| Air-based PV-T | 19–23% | 40–55% | 59–78% |
| Water-based PV-T | 19–23% | 45–65% | 64–88% |
| Advanced PV-T (2025) | 20–24% | 50–65% | 70–89% |
Combined electrical + thermal efficiency in domestic settings routinely reaches 70–89% under optimal conditions, with the electrical output itself enhanced by 5–10% over standalone PV due to active cooling.
Limitations[]
- Cost – higher upfront investment than standalone PV or solar cookers.
- Complexity – requires careful design and maintenance.
- Space requirements – larger installation area compared to single-technology systems.
Comparison[]
| Feature | PV Solar Kitchen | Solar Thermal Kitchen | PV-T Hybrid Kitchen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Output | Electricity only | Heat only | Electricity + Heat |
| Efficiency | Moderate | Moderate | High (combined) |
| Cost | Medium | Low | High |
| Applications | Appliances, lighting | Direct cooking, water heating | Both appliances and cooking |
Documents[]
- Review on photovoltaic/thermal hybrid solar collectors: Classifications, applications and new systems - Amal Herez et al
Audio and video[]
- NEW: May 2025: Solar off-grid solutions for pharmacies and hospitals in Africa - CONSOLFOOD2025 - Heike Hoedt
Read the report[]
External links[]
- Photovoltaic termal hybrid solar collector - Wikipedia