Solar electricity generation using a photovoltaic-thermoelectric system operating in Nigeria climate

Abstract

This paper presents the performance evaluation of a hybrid photovoltaic-thermoelectric (PV-TE) system operating under practical conditions in Nigeria climate. The thermoelectric generator (TEG) is directly attached to the back plate of the PV cell and is used to regulate the cell temperature while increasing its overall efficiency. A three-dimensional finite element model is developed in ANSYS 2020 R1 commercial software and is utilised in studying the temperature and electric distribution of the hybrid system operating under practical conditions. Temperature dependent material properties are also considered. The simulation is carried out for 24 h to encompass both day and night operation of the hybrid system. Results indicate that power output obtained from the hybrid PV-TE set up is higher than that harvested from the stand-alone PV system. Furthermore, the TEG acts as a heat sink by converting the waste infrared radiation from the PV to electricity. Hence, the incorporation of TEGs to PV systems is highly encouraged since this will result in better system performance at relatively low cost. The results obtained from this study will provide a reference for the design of hybrid photovoltaic-thermoelectric systems operating in Nigeria.