Demonstration of Thermophotovoltaics for a Full-Spectrum Solar Energy System

Abstract

A non-imaging (NI) device and thermophotovoltaic (TPV) array for use in a full-spectrum solar energy system has been designed, built, and tested [1,2,3]. This system was designed to utilize the otherwise wasted infrared (IR) energy that is separated from the visible portion of the solar spectrum before the visible light is harvested. The IR energy will be converted to electricity via a gallium antimonide (GaSb) TPV array. The experimental apparatus for the testing of the IR optics and TPV performance is described. Array performance data will be presented, along with a comparison between outdoor experimental tests and laboratory flash tests. An analysis of the flow of the infrared energy through the collection system will be presented, and recommendations will be made for improvements. The TPV array generated a maximum of 26.7 W, demonstrating a conversion efficiency of the IR energy of 12%.