Optimizing photovoltaic system efficiency with the integration of thermoelectric generators and nano-phase change material

Abstract

Abstract Combining photovoltaic (PV) with thermoelectric generators (TEGs) and phase change materials (PCMs) has attracted significant interest for enhancing electrical efficiency and managing PV modules’ temperature. This study employs numerical simulations to evaluate the performance of a hybrid PV–NPCM–TEG system, with a particular focus on the effect of nano-PCM (NPCM). The analysis examines efficiency, thermal regulation, and power generation under varying environmental conditions, including solar radiation, ambient temperature, and wind speed. Results indicate that the incorporation of NPCM (Al2O3 + RT35) enhanced temperature regulation and increased efficiency by 0.2% compared to the PV–PCM–TEG hybrid system, with nanoparticle (NP) loading enhancing TEG efficiency. Moreover, higher wind speeds and greater NP loading further improved the overall performance of the PV–NPCM–TEG system.