Performance Assessment of a Photovoltaic Cell Coupled with a Thermoelectric Generator

Abstract

Solar energy resources have been widely harvested through the use of photovoltaic cells. Nevertheless, its effectiveness is still tricky because the Sun’s heat is rarely considered. This study examined the performance of a photovoltaic-coupled thermoelectric generator. Temperature and light sensors were put in the photovoltaic system and linked to a data-collecting system. The result demonstrates that adding a thermoelectric generator lowers the photovoltaic temperature, increasing the combined solar and thermoelectric generator’s power and efficiency. The endeavor aims to create a more efficient solar system by improving its design.

Keywords

• photovoltaic cell
• thermoelectric generator
• temperature profile
• power
• efficiency