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Efficiency enhancement of photovoltaic modules via full-spectrum utilization and waste heat recovery using liquid-state thermocells

Author

Listed:
  • Ye, Fuqian
  • Zhao, Xin
  • Zhang, Yuxin
  • Man, Yi
  • Qi, Feihong
  • Zhang, Xin
  • Peng, Wanli
  • Rahman, Ehsanur
  • Guo, Juncheng

Abstract

The photovoltaic module (PVM) primarily captures photons near the semiconductor bandgap to generate photocurrent. However, low- and high-energy photons outside this range are largely wasted as heat, limiting efficiency to approximately 33% (Shockley–Queisser limit). To utilize the full solar spectrum, a spectrally selective absorber (SSA) and a liquid thermocell (LTC) are synergistically integrated with a PVM to form a novel hybrid system for the first time. The developed model improves upon previous work by including: (i) the PVM-to-LTC area ratio, (ii) iterative energy balance to determine LTC electrode temperatures, and (iii) key irreversible losses in both subsystems. Under AM1.5G conditions (1 kW m−2), the proposed hybrid system has a maximum conversion efficiency of 20.70% and a electric power density of 207.0 W m−2 when the PVM operates at 345 K. Compared to a standalone PVM, the hybrid system demonstrates a 7.64% improvement in both efficiency and power density, outperforming the PVM and solid-state thermoelectric generator hybrid technologies. Parametric studies reveal that lowering PVM and sink temperatures, narrowing LTC electrode spacing, and raising ambient temperature can significantly improve performance. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the optimal design and operation of PVM-LTC hybrid systems, offering valuable insights into solar full-spectrum utilization and waste heat recovery in PV applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Ye, Fuqian & Zhao, Xin & Zhang, Yuxin & Man, Yi & Qi, Feihong & Zhang, Xin & Peng, Wanli & Rahman, Ehsanur & Guo, Juncheng, 2026. "Efficiency enhancement of photovoltaic modules via full-spectrum utilization and waste heat recovery using liquid-state thermocells," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PE).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:256:y:2026:i:pe:s0960148125019111
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.124247
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