Numerical–Experimental Performance Assessment of a Non-Concentrating Solar Thermoelectric Generator (STEG) Operating in the Southern Hemisphere

Abstract

This study assesses the performance of a solid-state semiconductor-based hybrid photovoltaic-thermoelectric device that aims to harness both solar irradiance and heat dissipated from photovoltaic cells operating in Foz do Iguaçu city. Initially, the technologies involved, and the arrangement of the proposed device are presented; the modeling process of the generator operation under local operating conditions and taking into account solar energy availability is described later. The thermal energy harvesting brings out an average annual efficiency gain of 4.42% and a maximum efficiency increase of 6.05% (in the fall equinox) compared to standalone PV cell operation. The power output increase due to the utilization of the heat dissipated by the PV cells was substantial, reaching values ranging from 14.82% to 40.54%, depending on the time of year. The novelty of this research stems from the field power generation forecast, in southern hemisphere, for a new STEG device that combines photovoltaic cells and solid-state thermoelectric modules.

Investigation of the effect temperature on the performance of the photovoltaic solar design for the western Region of Paraná - Brazil

“…In addition, has the development of hybrid generation systems for harnessing thermal energy based in energy harvesting [95][96][97][98][99].…”

Electrical Generation of a Ground-Level Solar Thermoelectric Generator: Experimental Tests and One-Year Cycle Simulation

“…In addition, there is large room for improvement. From the design point of view, for example, the combination of TEG and photovoltaic generators (PVG) may increase the overall efficiency above 6% in small devices [43]. On the basis of the results, and since daylight time generation was substantially higher than during the night, a priori preferred location would be that with high insolation values.…”