The Potential of a Hybrid Optical Photovoltaic Converter–Thermoelectric Receiver to Enhance Conversion Efficiency

Abstract

This paper presents a 3D simulation model for an optical photovoltaic power converter hybridized with a thermoelectric generator and shows the potential of hybridization for applications at very low temperatures. To carry out the study, the methodology for designing the hybrid converter optimizes the thermoelectric couple height under different air temperature conditions. This design considers two thermoelectric device scenarios: a low ZT (~1) and a high ZT (~2.4). Additionally, a state-of-the-art power converter based on a multijunction vertical structure made up of GaAs is considered. The results of the simulation procedure show maximum relative efficiency improvement factors of 6.16% (temperature matched) and 48.71% (temperature mismatched) compared to a nonhybrid power converter at 200 K of air temperature and high ZT. These results open a promising path for the development of a new generation of highly efficient hybrid converters.