Design and Optimization of Concentrated Photovoltaic-Thermal Systems for Solar Hydrogen Production

About the Project

Green hydrogen production through solar-powered water electrolysis represents a critical pathway toward achieving global decarbonisation targets. However, conventional photovoltaic-electrolyser systems significantly underutilise available solar energy by rejecting substantial thermal energy generated during photovoltaic operation. This thermal energy, if strategically recovered and utilised, can enhance overall system efficiency and reduce the levelised cost of hydrogen production.

Concentrated photovoltaic-thermal (CPVT) systems offer a unique solution by simultaneously generating electrical power and recoverable high-grade thermal energy from the same solar input. While CPVT technology has demonstrated promise in high direct normal irradiance (DNI) regions, significant challenges remain in adapting these systems for diverse climatic conditions, particularly in tropical and equatorial regions where diffuse radiation constitutes a substantial portion of available solar energy. Furthermore, optimal strategies for thermal energy harvesting and integration with hydrogen production systems remain insufficiently explored.

This PhD project focuses on the design, modelling, and optimisation of advanced CPVT systems tailored for solar hydrogen production applications. The research will emphasise optical system design, thermal management strategies, and multi-physics modelling to develop high-efficiency CPVT architectures capable of operating effectively under variable irradiance conditions. A key objective is to investigate how CPVT-generated thermal energy can be strategically utilised to enhance water electrolysis performance and overall system economics.

The project will be predominantly simulation and modelling-based, with scope for targeted experimental validation. Key research areas may include:

• Design and characterisation of CPVT system configurations for hydrogen production applications.
• Development of multi-physics simulation models capturing optical, thermal, and electrical system behaviour.
• Investigation of thermal management approaches and photovoltaic cooling strategies.
• Analysis of thermal energy utilisation pathways for water electrolysis applications.
• System-level performance optimisation and parametric analysis.
• Numerical investigation of CPVT system performance under various operating conditions.
• Techno-economic assessment and performance evaluation of CPVT-based hydrogen production systems.

The research will employ advanced numerical simulation and multi-physics modelling as primary methodologies. Geometry modelling, optical modelling, computational fluid dynamics, electrical circuit modelling, and electrochemical performance models will be integrated to capture coupled system behaviour. Simulation platforms such as EES, MATLAB/Simulink, Python, ANSYS/COMSOL, or similar tools will be utilized extensively. Physics-informed machine learning approaches may be applied to accelerate model development, performance prediction, and system optimization under variable operating conditions.

Candidates are required to have the following:

• First class in an Engineering or Science degree, preferably in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or related disciplines
• Strong command of written and oral English
• Demonstrated interest in renewable energy systems, solar technologies, or hydrogen production
• Solid foundation in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and/or electrochemistry
• Experience with modelling and simulation tools will be highly valued
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with capacity for independent research
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary research environments

Interested candidates who satisfy the criteria above should provide the following to Prof. Chong Meng Nan (Chong.Meng.Nan@monash.edu) in their application:

• A cover letter that outlines your skills and experience
• CV which includes your education background and your publication record (if any)
• Evidence of English proficiency test (if any) (eg: IELTS, TOEFL)

Supervisory Team:

Main Supervisor: Prof. Chong Meng Nan

Associate Supervisor: Dr. Sridhar Sripadmanabhan Indira

Associate Supervisor: Dr. Chan Ping Yi

How To Apply

It is suggested that you first contact the main supervisor and provide them with your academic background and achievements to determine whether you are a 'fit' for this research topic. If you feel you are a 'fit', please click here to complete an Expression of Interest, including your research proposal relevant to this project. Your EoI will be assessed and if you are eligible you will be invited to apply for PhD candidature and may be selected to interview for the scholarship

IMPORTANT: Starting May 2026, the Expression of Interest process described above will no longer apply. Updated application instructions will be available on this page from 4 May 2026.

Funding Notes

This project is funded by Monash University Malaysia. Successful PhD candidates will be paid a stipend with fully-funded tuition fees.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for the scholarship, you must possess a minimum academic qualification of First Class Honours (H1) or its equivalence (H1E) recognised by Monash University Malaysia and satisfy the English language requirements.