Performance evaluation and optimization of a perovskite solar cell-thermoelectric generator hybrid system

• Published in: Energy (Oxford) 2020-06, Vol.201, p.117665, Article 117665
• Main Authors: Liao, Tianjun, He, Qijiao, Xu, Qidong, Dai, Yawen, Cheng, Chun, Ni, Meng
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Computer simulation; Efficiency; Energy balance; Energy conversion; Energy conversion efficiency; Energy efficiency; Hybrid system; Hybrid systems; Load matching; Matching load; Mathematical models; Optimization; Performance evaluation; Perovskite solar cell (PSC); Perovskites; Photovoltaic cells; Solar cells; Subsystems; Thermoelectric generator (TEG); Thermoelectric generators; Thermoelectricity; Thickness
• ISSN: 0360-5442; 1873-6785
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2020.117665

In order to improve the photo-to-electric energy conversion efficiency, a hybrid system is proposed by integrating a thermoelectric generator (TEG) with a perovskite solar cell (PSC). According to the derived formulas for the efficiency and power output of the hybrid system, three especial work states such as opened TEG, opened PSC, and PSC-TEG tandem cells are, respectively, discussed through numerical simulation. Further, we study the general work state, i.e., the PSC and the TEG independently drive their loads and are coupled with each other through energy balance equation. The matching loads 0.13Ωand 12.3Ωof the two subsystems and the optimum area 0.0324 m2 of the PSC can be chosen to obtain the maximum efficiency 0.216. Moreover, the perovskite layer’s optimum thickness 449.7nmis designed to obtain the overall maximum efficiency 0.229. For comparison, the hybrid system achieves improved overall energy efficiency by harnessing the waste heat produced in the PSC. The proposed model may provide some theoretical bases for the optimal design of practical PSC–TEG hybrid systems. •A PSC-TEG hybrid system is proposed to decrease thermal loss and improve efficiency.•The maximum efficiency of the single PSC 0.204 is achieved as the TEG is opened.•The maximum efficiency of the single TEG 0.0516 is obtained as the PSC is opened.•The maximum efficiency is 0.229 at the PSC and TEG independent work state.•Performances of the tandem cells in present work are compared to the reported work.