The performance enhancement and multi-field applications of PVT hydrogen production technology: a review
Xuhong Wang, Wei Zhang, Kun Yang, Jiahong Guo, Zhangyu Li, Ruiwen Zou, Xiding Zeng
Abstract
Introduction The PVT hydrogen generation has garnered a lot of research interest. This enhances energy efficiency and presents a viable route for the production of clean energy. Although key component optimization has been studied, their advantages, limitations, and future directions in urban buildings, industrial parks, and agricultural production remain underexplored. This study focuses on the latest research progress of Photovoltaic-Thermal (PVT) hydrogen production technology, aiming to promote its widespread application across multiple fields. Methods This paper examines the performance optimization pathways of PVT hydrogen production technology to enhance overall system performance, focusing on improvements at the subsystem, whole system, and polygeneration system levels. In addition, this review summarizes and analyzes recent innovations and developments in the potential applications of PVT hydrogen systems in urban buildings, industrial parks, and the agricultural sector. Results Nanofluids, phase change materials, spectral splitting technologies, and AI-based control strategies have significantly improved the hydrogen production efficiency of PVT systems. However, practical deployment still faces distinct challenges such as PVT module degradation under dust and humidity, instability in solar-thermal-electrolysis coupling, and economic uncertainties in decentralized deployment scenarios. Conclusion The findings indicate that innovations in material design, thermal-electric coordination, and AI-based control are essential for enhancing hydrogen production efficiency and system reliability. However, practical deployment faces context-specific challenges, such as dust and water scarcity in agriculture, integration complexity in industry, and space constraints in buildings. Future research should prioritize adaptive control, durability under harsh conditions, and scenario-driven techno-economic optimization.