Modelling of a Solar Ejector Cooling System using CPV Collector

The aim of the paper is the modelling of an ejector cooling system driven by a concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) collector; a single-stage ejector is used. The CPV modules represent a technological innovation allowing to obtain electric energy with efficiency and temperature values higher than traditional photovoltaic systems. Hence, the thermal energy can drive processes such as solar cooling. On the contrary, the CPV systems need a major maintenance and their use is preferable where the climate is not wet. The model input data are the outdoor temperature and solar irradiation values of some Italian sample cities. The model output data are represented by solar collector efficiency, evaporation power, COP and COPoverall. Moreover, an exergoeconomic analysis is carried out to compare the product cost of an ejection cooling system driven by CPV module (CPV/ECS) and a traditional electric heat pump (EHP). Finally, a SPB of 7.4 years is obtained adopting a CPV/ECS instead of EHP and, using also the electric energy of CPV system to match the domestic user electric requirements, a further saving is possible with a SPB equal to 5.2 years.