Maximizing the power generation using solar tracking PV-TEG hybrid system

Solar energy is the most reliable renewable energy source. The photovoltaic panels (PV) generate electricity using light from the sun. The power produced by a solar panel is maximum when the panel faces the sun directly. The solar tracker is used to maintain the position of the panel perpendicular to the sun by detecting the direction of maximum sunlight. Thus, integrating solar panel with solar tracking technology increases the overall power produced by the panel. Since the panel is placed under hot sun the panel temperature increases and results in heat loss. This heat can be used to harvest power with the help of Thermo-electric generator (TEG). TEG is used to convert temperature difference between two junctions into electricity. Here the temperature difference is between the conductive heat loss from PV panel and the atmosphere. The conductive heat loss from the solar panel is transferred to the TEG by placing a conductive aluminum layer between them. Also heat sink is installed on the other of TEG to maintain the temperature difference. Thus, by using both light and heat from the solar radiation, the proposed PV-TEG system will be able to yield more power from solar radiation than a conventional PV panel.