Photovoltaic or photothermal panels have been used in practice for many decades. Hybrid solar panels that combine photovoltaic and photothermal functions in one panel have also been designed and tested. With appropriate removal and storage of heat from the panel, in addition to a higher energy gain, cooling of the PV part is also ensured, which increases the efficiency of the conversion of solar radiation to electricity. However, higher production costs and more complex installation hinder the wider practical use of such hybrid solar panels, despite their higher energy efficiency. A possible solution to this dilemma is offered by a simple hybrid panel, in which the PV layer is applied directly to an aluminium foam panel having integrated tubes for efficient heat removal and collection. The novel foaming technology makes it possible to integrate all necessary structural components such as tubes, frame, holders etc. in one panel during single foaming step, which significantly simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs. In the presentation, this novel foam-based panel will be compared with a traditional hybrid solar panel commercially available on the market in terms of energy efficiency (heat and electricity) and economic demand.