A company called Solyndra pioneered the solar tube but this new invention by UK-based Naked Energy may just take cylindrical solar to a whole new level. Called Virtu, the product includes an integrated photovoltaic cell in a vacuum tube to generate both electricity and warm water at the same time. The setup keeps the PV cool to optimize energy production and maximizes space with a combined PVT solution.
Specifically, heat is transferred away from the photovoltaic cells with a patented thermosyphon technology that harvests the unwanted heat from the photovoltaic cell to heat up water, according to The Engineer. The process is expected to generate about 45% more energy over conventional solar PV.
Virtu can be installed anywhere pitched, curved, or flat roofs or walls and system owners can prioritize electricity or heat generation, depending on their energy demands.
Naked Energy is on a trade mission in the U.S. ri
