Open AccessSolar photovoltaic/thermal-thermoelectric generator performance review
Author(s) -
Muhammad Yahya Zulakmal,
Ahmad Fudholi,
Nurul Shahirah Binti Rukman,
Sohif Mat,
Hoy Yen Chan,
Kamaruzzaman Sopian
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
iop conference series. earth and environmental science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1755-1307
pISSN - 1755-1315
DOI - 10.1088/1755-1315/268/1/012120
Subject(s) - photovoltaic system , thermoelectric generator , photovoltaic thermal hybrid solar collector , thermal , environmental science , solar energy , automotive engineering , thermoelectric effect , materials science , generator (circuit theory) , engineering physics , computer science , process engineering , mechanical engineering , nuclear engineering , electrical engineering , engineering , meteorology , thermodynamics , power (physics) , physics
Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells are currently limited by the temperature factor that causes the drop of efficiency when the module temperature rises. Many approaches were made to solve the issue so that the performance of the solar cell is improved including the integration of thermoelectric generator (TEG) hybrid. The objective of these improvements is to increase the temperature coefficient that will enhance the efficiency of the solar cells. Some approach may produce other benefits like thermal energy or building integration other than producing electrical energy. Common PV panels only utilize 15-30% of the irradiation received while the rest of it are reflected away or turned into heat waste. In this paper, the relationship of PV heat waste and PV performance relationship is explored. Photovoltaic/thermal-thermoelectric generator (PV/T-TEG) hybrid layouts were compared based on its performances including overall efficiency to identify solutions for this type of application. PV efficiency and losses due to thermal limits will demonstrate the issue as temperature increases. Solar cell that is available in the current market is simulated for its temperature prediction and heat dissipation. This will determine the potential application for a TEG hybrid. Previous conducted experiments and simulations show a 0.14% to 5.2% increment in electrical efficiency. The prediction model will agree with this range of finding. The current advancement in solar PV/T-TEG is compiled and the future approach that can be taken to solve the temperature limits will be discussed.