Portuguese 
Spanish 
3 min of reading 
0 comments 
A revolution in the solar energy sector is about to transform the market: the hybrid solar panel. This innovative technology, capable of generating electricity and heating water simultaneously, promises to be four times more efficient than traditional solar panels. This advance emerges as a potential solution for limited spaces and high energy demands in buildings, hospitals, hotels, and residences.
The novelty in the world of solar energy, the hybrid solar panel, was developed by the British company Next Energy, with the model called VirtuPVT. This hybrid system combines two distinct concepts: generating electricity with photovoltaic cells and heating water, traditionally carried out by separate systems.
The differential of this technology lies in its construction: the collector tubes have two layers of glass with a vacuum between them, resembling a thermos bottle. This design minimizes thermal losses, maintaining high efficiency even in colder climates. Additionally, the vacuum protects the photovoltaic cells, while the solar absorber keeps the temperature uniform, increasing the electrical performance and durability of the cells.
Hybrid Solar Panel Innovates with Reflector in the Tubes
Each hybrid solar tube measures 2 meters and 16 cm in length by 30 cm in width, with an approximate weight of 20 kg. The output electrical power of each tube is 70 watts, and the connection is done through MC4 connectors, similar to those used in conventional photovoltaic modules. The ease of installation is one of the strong points, with a proprietary mounting system that saves time and materials.
-
Brazilian scientists are simultaneously advancing two research projects on clean hydrogen and driving solutions that could transform the energy matrix, enhance industrial competitiveness, and accelerate large-scale emission reduction targets.
-
Advancement in renewable energy: A R$ 150 million project launched by Petrobras and Finep aims to create state-of-the-art electrolyzers for green hydrogen, strengthening national research and preparing Brazil to compete in a billion-dollar energy market.
-
Solar energy can increase property value by up to 10% and become a selling point.
-
Illiterate or semi-literate grandmothers were trained to repair solar systems, open rural workshops, and light up homes that still depended on kerosene.
A notable aspect of this innovation is the presence of a reflector in the tubes, designed to capture additional sunlight and increase system performance by up to 40%, which can result in an average annual yield 15% higher.
Space Saving and Financial Return
The hybrid solar panel not only saves space but also ensures a financial return up to 50% higher per square meter compared to conventional solar technologies. Next Energy emphasizes that this solution is ideal for buildings with high demands for hot water and energy, such as hotels, hospitals, apartment buildings, leisure centers, and factories.
Elm Solar, a company specialized in photovoltaic solar energy, will be responsible for the sales, manufacturing, and distribution of the product in the United States. This technological advance represents a significant step toward energy efficiency, with potential positive impacts in various areas, from reducing rooftop space usage to decreasing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
The hybrid solar panel is an innovation that could revolutionize the market for solar energy. In addition to being a more efficient alternative to traditional solar panels, this technology offers versatility of installation, whether on flat roofs, sloped roofs, or vertical facades. With greater efficiency and promising financial returns, this innovation paves the way for a more sustainable and economical future in solar energy.
Be the first to react!