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Multi-stage solar energy utilization through perovskite-silicon tandem structures integrated with a capacitive salinity/heat engine

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  • Yan, Lu
  • Huang, Yuewu
  • Sun, Wenchao

Abstract

To address the existing limitations in enhancing the use of the solar spectrum and photothermal effects in current solar cell designs, an innovative approach is proposed by integrating a tandem perovskite-silicon solar cell (TSC) with a capacitive salinity/heat engine (CSHE). The coupled structure not only takes full advantage of the complementary absorption properties of silicon and perovskite materials but also drives efficient thermoelectric conversion using natural salinity gradients, thereby enhancing overall photovoltaic conversion efficiency. Through a combination of numerical simulation and theoretical modeling, mathematical formulations for key performance indicators, including power density and energy efficiency are derived. A comprehensive assessment of the system's operational characteristics is performed. Sensitivity analysis focuses on critical parameters, including operating temperature, environment temperature, defect density, absorber thickness, contact material work function, Stern layer thickness, and cutoff voltages, informing the development of enhancement strategies. Optimization results indicate that this hybrid system attains a peak power density of 382.53 W/m2 and an energy efficiency of 38.25 %, representing a 66.82 % improvement over standalone single-junction perovskite solar cell. This study highlights the system's potential for synergistic upgrade of spectral absorption and waste heat recovery, underscoring its promising role in advancing solar energy utilization efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Yan, Lu & Huang, Yuewu & Sun, Wenchao, 2025. "Multi-stage solar energy utilization through perovskite-silicon tandem structures integrated with a capacitive salinity/heat engine," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 339(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:339:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225047668
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139124
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    References listed on IDEAS

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