Solves the problem of solar panels: scientists have created a hybrid “night” generator

A system based on photovoltaic panels and a thermoelectric generator can power small appliances both day and night.

Researchers from the Malaysian Multimedia University have developed and analyzed a new hybrid system that combines photovoltaic solar panels (PV) with thermoelectric generators (TEG). This writes pv magazine.

As noted in the publication, TEGs are usually used for industrial purposes to convert excess heat into electricity. Within the new system, the solar panel produces electricity during the day, while the TEG uses the temperature difference around the cell to generate electricity at night.

“Although traditional solar panels are leading renewable technology, they have a drawback: they generate electricity only during the day and cannot be productive at night. To overcome this problem, this study develops solar-powered night-time power generators that operate on the basis of radiative cooling.” — said scientists.

The researchers tested the system and found that it has the potential for “moderate” nighttime electricity generation. It is suitable for small household applications such as LED lights, laptops, phone chargers and wireless routers.

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During the tests, the team placed a heater under the radiator to control and simulate different temperature changes. Three different TEG surface areas were tested: a 3×3 cm TEG, a 4×4 cm TEG, and two 4×4 cm TEGs connected in series.

“A 3 cm x 3 cm TEG can produce up to 0, 9 mW of power when the temperature difference reaches 55 °C, while a 4 cm x 4 cm TEG has a maximum power of 3.8 mW Two TEGs 4×4cm connected in series has twice the output power compared to 4×4cm TEG. The maximum power here reaches 7.7mW” — the researchers noted.

It is reported that in all three cases, the maximum power output was slightly above zero when the temperature difference was minimal at 5 °C. In the 3×3 cm TEG, the peak voltage was 114.9 V and the peak current was 8.67 A. The peak voltage for the 4×4 cm TEG was 180.2 V and the peak current was 21.5 A. In the case of two connected TEGs, the maximum voltage was 340.4 V and the peak current was about 21.5 A.

“This study demonstrates how useful and affordable the system is,” — the scientists concluded.

In addition, the researchers noted that if a solar system with a dual 4×4 cm TEG is placed on a roof with a free area of ​​140 square meters, the TEGs alone will produce an additional 375 watts of power.

“The system can be used for some household appliances, such as desktop computers, laptops, phone chargers, LED TVs and lighting. Its potential scalability means that if there is enough roof space, a significant amount of energy can be generated at night,” said study co-author Chan Kah Yeung.