High conversion photovoltaic panels

Can hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (pv-T) collectors deliver high-efficiency solar energy conversion?

In particular, hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) collectors that use a coolant to capture waste heat from the photovoltaic panels in order to deliver an additional useful thermal output are also reviewed, and it is noted that this technology has a promising potential in terms of delivering high-efficiency solar energy conversion.

How do photovoltaic panels work?

Photovoltaic (PV) panels convert a portion of the incident solar radiation into electrical energy and the remaining energy (>70 %) is mostly converted into thermal energy. This thermal energy is trapped within the panel which, in turn, increases the panel temperature and deteriorates the power output as well as electrical efficiency.

How efficient are photovoltaic panels?

Due to the many advances in photovoltaic technology over recent years, the average panel conversion efficiency has increased from 15% to over 23%. This significant jump in efficiency resulted in the power rating of a standard-size panel increasing from 250W to over 450W.

Which photovoltaic approach is most directly associated with thermal conversion?

Thermophotovoltaics is the photovoltaic approach most directly associated with thermal conversion (Fig. 7a). Emission from the heated receiver is confined to a narrow bandwidth, through filtering for example, and directed to a cell.

Which engine has the best solar conversion efficiencies?

For solar conversion, Stirling engines have the highest experimental values for this stage, with overall solar-to-electricity conversion efficiencies of 31.3% reported 83 and less well-substantiated 34% claimed 84. Brayton cycles potentially offer higher efficiencies through increased operating temperatures.

Should PV cells be a part of hybrid PV-T collectors?

The thermal management of PV cells when these are a part of hybrid PV-T collectors is a promising approach as the waste heat from the PV cells can be utilised for thermal applications. Such hybrid systems have an overall higher total energy output compared to two individual systems and have the benefit of compact design and better space use.