Solar Thermal Systems and Applications: New Design Techniques for Improved Thermal Performance brings together the latest advances for the improved performance, efficiency, and integration of solar thermal energy (STE) technology. The book begins by introducing solar energy and solar thermal energy as a viable option in terms of green energy for industrial, commercial, and residential applications, as well as its role and potential within hybrid energy systems. This is followed by detailed chapters that focus on key innovations in solar thermal energy systems, covering novel approaches and techniques in areas such as flat plate solar collectors, modified evacuated tube solar collectors, solar parabolic trough collectors, linear Fresnel reflectors, photovoltaic thermal systems, phase change materials, nanotechnology, combined PVT-PCM systems, solar thermal systems and Trombe wall design, solar still units, and solar dish systems. Throughout the book, the coverage is supported by experimental and numerical modelling methods, and techniques are discussed and assessed with a view to improved electrical and thermal efficiency and performance. This is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students in solar energy, thermal engineering, hybrid energy systems, renewable energy, mechanical engineering, nanotechnology, and materials science. This is also of interest to engineers, R&D professionals, scientists, and policy makers with an interest in solar thermal energy (STE) in an industrial, residential, or commercial setting. Introduces solar thermal energy (STE) and details the current state and future opportunities Reviews and analyzes the latest advances in solar thermal energy technology, design, methods, and applications Covers, in detail, the role of phase change materials and nanomaterials in STE systems