Optimizing Power Generation in a Novel Thermoelectric Integrated Solar Panel Design

In this paper, we propose a novel design to increase the power generating capacity of solar panels with a judicious integration of thermoelectric units. The proposed design is referred to as the Thermoelectric Integrated Photovoltaic Module (TIPM). TIPMs are photovoltaic (PV) modules that have thermoelectric (TE) units installed on their back surface. By the Seebeck effect, TE units convert a fraction of the thermal energy flowing through them into electrical power, when connected to a load. We propose using TE units to convert a fraction of the absorbed by traditional PV modules into electrical energy. This additional energy conversion will subsequently increase the overall power generating capacity of the PV system. In this paper, we perform parametric studies for different environmental conditions, PV module efficiencies and solar i rradiance; and determine the maximum additional power generation achievable with this new design. We use design optimization techniques to help explore the optimal performance of TIPMs, and illustrate their potential in improving solar energy systems. From the parametric studies performed, we demonstrate that TIPMs can have a considerable impact on solar energy systems. They can be effective for low efficiency PV modules operating under high solar radiation, moderate ambient temperatures, and low heat transfer coefficients.