The development of renewable energy, especially solar, is essential for meeting future energy demands. The use of a wide range of the solar spectrum through the solar cells will increase electricity generation and thereby improve energy supply. However, solar photovoltaics (PV) can only convert a portion of the spectrum into electricity. Excess solar radiation is wasted by heat, which decreases solar PV cells’ efficiency and decreases their life span. Interestingly, thermoelectric generators (TEGs) are bidirectional devices that act as heat engines, converting the excess heat into electrical energy through thermoelectric effects through when integrated with a PV. These generators also enhance device efficiency and reduce the amount of heat that solar cells dissipate. Several experiments have been carried out to improve the hybrid PV-TEG system efficiency, and some are still underway. In the present study, the photovoltaic and thermoelectric theories are reviewed. Furthermore, different hybrid system integration methods and experimental and numerical investigations in improving the efficiency of PV-TEG hybrid systems are also discussed. This paper also assesses the effect of critical parameters of PV-TEG performance and highlights possible future research topics to enhancing the literature on photovoltaic-thermoelectric generator systems.

A thermoelectric generator (TEG) using Seebeck effect to generate electrical energy in a residential application encompasses a case study of a test rig consisting of a concrete shingle as case study material. This paper explores its behavior and response to changes in temperature throughout the day. Four TEGs in series are mounted on the underside of a shingle. The measurement of the voltage and current response were made to determine the power generated. Using National Instruments as a data acquisition device with thermocouple probes to gather all the necessary data of which are discussed in the paper. From the experiments, the modules were able to generate up to 65.22 µW at 138Ω. This shows a considerable potential of TEG application in residential areas, as they are scalable.

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