Open Access

ARTICLE

Enhanced Efficiency of Solar-Assist Heat Pump Using Tracking PV/T Panel: A TRNSYS Simulation Study

Ashna Abduljabbar Haji^*, Ranj S. Abdullah^*

Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Erbil Technical Engineering College, Erbil Polytechnic University, Erbil, 44001, Iraq

* Corresponding Authors: Ashna Abduljabbar Haji. Email: ; Ranj S. Abdullah. Email:

(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advancements in Energy Resources and Their Processes, Systems, Materials and Policies for Affordable Energy Sustainability)

Energy Engineering 2025, 122(12), 5111-5127. https://doi.org/10.32604/ee.2025.073367

Received 16 September 2025; Accepted 24 October 2025; Issue published 27 November 2025

Abstract

The hybrid photovoltaic solar-assisted heat pump are primarily used to generate electricity and provide thermal energy for heating applications. This study investigates the performance enhancement of a hybrid Photovoltaic Thermal Solar-Assisted Heat Pump (PV/T-SAHP) system integrated with a solar tracking mechanism. The system was simulated using TRNSYS to evaluate its monthly electrical output and coefficient of performance (COP) of the heat pump system over a year. The results showed a significant improvement in energy generation and efficiency compared to a conventional PV/T system without SAHP system. Overall, the solar tracking configuration of the PV/T-SAHP generated 10%–40% more electricity than the fixed system. The system for the tracking mode achieved a maximum monthly average electrical energy output of 634.349 kWh in June. Throughout the year, the tracking mode consistently outperformed the fixed mode. During the winter months of January and December, the tracking system produced 328.7 and 323.6 kWh, respectively, compared to 297.8 and 299.7 kWh for the fixed mode. The highest COP of 5.65 occurred in July, indicating a strong seasonal correlation with solar irradiance. In contrast, the minimum COP of 4.55 was observed in the months, February and March, reflecting reduced solar availability. The solar tracking feature consistently maintained an optimal panel angle, increasing energy gains and improving system efficiency. Overall, the integration of a heat pump and tracking control significantly improved system performance, making the hybrid PV/T-SAHP configuration a promising solution for year-round renewable energy generation.

---

Graphic Abstract

---

Keywords

---