摘要： More interesting research in the field of photovoltaic thermal is being conducted widely due to shifting interest in supplying both electrical and thermal needs especially in areas that suffer from small installation space. Photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) offers to produce both electricity and thermal power from solar irradiance within the same area; therefore, saving up space & other costs directed to installation. Moreover, various techniques & types have been studied and implemented to improve PV/T’s performance and combined efficiency. The aim of this paper is to review the fundamentals of this technology, current works in the field and show innovative designs of PV/T to illuminate the way forward for the technology for globe-wide recognition. Nanofluid and nano-PCM based PV/T collector was found to produce the highest efficiency among other types in tropical climate conditions. The performance evaluation criteria for this system was presented and explained. It is recommended to amend the current design by simplifying it for better use in building integrated applications and for residential consumers.