Hybrid solar-phase change material energy-storage systems for low-carbon energy infrastructure: design strategies, performance insights, and sustainability pathways

Hybrid solar-phase change material (PCM) energy storage systems constitute a crucial avenue for stabilizing solar power output and promoting dependable, low-carbon energy generation in line with global sustainability objectives. This review amalgamates cutting-edge advancements in PCM categorization, thermophysical properties, encapsulation methodologies, and hybrid system configurations pertinent to photovoltaic (PV), photovoltaic–thermal (PV/T), and solar-thermal applications. The focus is directed toward enhancing heat transfer, optimizing exergy, and adopting emergent artificial-intelligence-driven control strategies that augment thermal management and storage efficacy. Empirical and computational analyses reveal that the integration of PCMs can lead to a reduction in PV module temperatures ranging from 8 to 12 °C, an improvement in electrical efficiency of up to 15 %, and an extension of thermal energy availability by 3 to 5 h. Techno-economic evaluations indicate reductions in the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) between 5 and 15 % and a decrease in payback durations by 10 to 20 %, while life-cycle assessments (LCA) exhibit a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 10 to 30 % when compared to traditional systems. These findings support the advancement of Affordable and Clean Energy and Climate Action by facilitating increased renewable energy integration with reduced environmental repercussions. The review additionally delineates significant future trajectories of bio-based and nano-engineered PCMs, three-dimensional printed encapsulation frameworks, and digital twin-assisted operational control, which are vital for the scalable, efficient, and sustainable development of solar energy storage systems, thereby contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).