Experimental study of photovoltaic-thermoelectric generator with graphite sheet
M. Gopinath, R. Marimuthu
Abstract
This work attempts to propose a technique which constitutes a photovoltaic (PV) panel that incorporates a thermoelectric generator (TEG) on the back of the PV. When exposed to the sun for an extended period, heat is produced at the back side of PV panels, which is generally wasted. While this heat is being wasted, the efficacy of the PV panel goes down, which invariably invokes the need for cooling systems. Conventional cooling systems are efficient but require more area. As a result, the cost of the system grows with its size. These lagging remarks invoke designing a system with simple architecture, easy installation and simplifying processes while achieving effective outcomes. Owing to the limitations of the present techniques, a system with a simple design, rapid setup, and dependable outcomes with low processing power is needed. The thermoelectric generator is structurally simple and can be a reliable solution for wasted-heat utilisation. Furthermore, graphite is a viable choice for increasing the PV-TEG output in the proposed technique. Maximum TEG voltage is 13.515 V when a graphite sheet is an auxiliary heat dissipator. The maximum difference in temperature between the graphite sheet and the PV back side is 6.682 °C.