Solar Thermoelectric Generator Research Articles

A synergistic approach to optimizing the performance of a concentrating solar segmented variable area leg thermoelectric generator using numerical methods and neural networks

AbstractThis study presents an optimized design for segmented variable area leg thermoelectric modules using finite element methods and Bayesian regularized neural networks. We explored the impact of geometry and thermal parameters on module performance using ANSYS software, identifying optimal parameters for power output and efficiency. Key findings revealed the higher influence of geometric parameters and confirmed the advantages of segmented thermoelectric generators for high-temperature applications like concentrated solar systems. With this optimization, power output and efficiency of the module increased by 875% and 165%, respectively, under 25 Suns. To refine the optimization process, a Bayesian regularized neural network was utilized, proving effective in predicting module performance with a low mean squared error and high coefficient of determination. This research provides important insights into high-performance thermoelectric modules for sustainable energy applications, demonstrating the significant role of advanced computational methods in energy solutions.

Photothermal conversion-enhanced thermoelectric generators combined with supercapacitors: An efficacious approach to integrated power generation and storage

Thermoelectric generators (TEGs), which harness and convert solar-thermal energy into electrical energy, possess immense potential within the field of photothermal conversion (PTC). However, the widespread adoption of conventional TEGs in PTC domain has encountered some obstacles, which represent that TEGs have poor inherent PTC performance, resulting in low solar-thermoelectric conversion efficiency, and this solar-thermal-electric conversion method lacks the capability of electrical energy storage. Hence, an urgent imperative exists to develop integrated and synergistic energy technologies that can respond to these underlying challenges. Herein, we reported a novel strategy for employing spinel-type Cu1.5Mn1.5O4 PTC coating to adorn conventional TEG to construct the solar-thermoelectric generator (STEG) which exhibited excellent solar-thermoelectric conversion capability, and then integrating the STEG in series with a supercapacitor composed of synthetic ionic liquid electrolytes and carbon electrodes to fulfill the conversion and storage of solar-thermal energy into electrical energy. The results indicated that, when compared to a conventional TEG, the STEG attained a drastically elevated internal temperature difference due to the excellent PTC capability of spinel-type coating. As a result, remarkable enhancements were observed in both the steady-state voltages (Voc) and maximum output power density (Pmax) of the STEG, exceeding a 6-fold and 40-fold increase, respectively. Furthermore, we conducted experimental validation to ascertain the viability of the solar-driven STEG to charge a supercapacitor, thereby achieving the conversion and storage of solar-thermal energy into electrical energy, and the working mechanism of this integrated system has been revealed. This study offers invaluable insights into the development of highly efficient solar-thermal energy conversion and storage methods.

Effects of temperature uniformity and nonuniformity on thermoelectric generator performance across hot and cold sides

Solar Thermoelectric Generators (STEG) are gaining attention for clean energy but face nonuniform temperature distribution due to optical concentrators and heat sinks. While prior studies used central circles or identical squares to represent temperature variations, this paper examines six circular and rectangular patterns. Using COMSOL, the TEG module was simulated under four boundary conditions: (1) uniform temperatures on both sides, (2) six patterns on the hot side, (3) six patterns on the cold side, and (4) six patterns on both sides for the first time. Experimentally, the I–V and P–V characteristics of STEG were measured using the capacitor technique for four concentration ratios (20, 40, 60, and 80 suns) obtained using the KIRAN-42 simulator. Simulations aligned well with all experiments under condition (1). The 3rd circular and rectangular pattern matched 11 times, while the 1st pattern matched once under conditions (2) − (4). The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between the measured and simulated Pmax, based on average measured temperatures, was 0.505. For condition (1), the RMSE was 0.017, while for conditions (2) − (4), it was 0.027 (0.033), 0.031 (0.031), and 0.044 (0.047) for the 3rd circular (rectangular) pattern, respectively. These findings indicate improved alignment between experiments and simulations.

Model development and preliminary study of the concentrated-radiative cooling based thermoelectric generator

Photovoltaic (PV) cells, widely adopted in solar energy applications, achieve a maximum efficiency of only 30 % and remain inactive during nighttime. In contrast, solar-thermal power generation has surpassed 50 % efficiency. To address these limitations, we introduce the Solar- Radiative cooling -Thermoelectric system (Solar-RC-TE), integrating solar energy, radiative cooling (RC), and thermoelectric power generation. This system enhances energy density, reduces consumption, lowers costs, and minimizes environmental impact while enabling nighttime power generation. For the optimization of the Solar-RC-TE model to further improve power generation efficiency, we employ the comprehensive three-dimensional methodology of COMSOL, considering material properties, structural configurations, and environmental factors. Research findings reveal that a 710 mm × 710 mm radiative cooling film can generate 386.12 mV of voltage on the thermoelectric generator (TEG). Environmental factors, such as increased solar irradiance, lead to temperature elevation, affecting efficiency. Overheating and higher wind speeds also contribute to decreased TEG efficiency. Regarding materials, improving the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) and film emissivity positively impact power generation efficiency. Elevating the film emissivity from 0.7 to 0.89 significantly enhances performance by 1.2 %. These outcomes provide a tangible and practical solution for addressing energy crises and environmental concerns.

Cost-efficient sunlight-driven thermoelectric electrolysis over Mo-doped Ni5P4 nanosheets for highly efficient alkaline water/seawater splitting

Thermoelectric water spitting to hydrogen systems has great potential in the production of environment-friendly fuel using renewable solar energy in the future. In this work, we prepared porous nanosheet Mo doping Ni5P4 catalysts on nickel foam with efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance in alkaline media. DFT calculations and experimental studies have shown that Mo doping deadeneds the interaction between H and O atomic orbitals of transition state water molecules, effectively weakening the activation energy of H2O dissociation. Therefore, Mo doping is favorable for enhancing HER activity with overpotential at 10 mA cm–2 of 93 mV and Tafel slope of 40.1 mV dec–1 in 1 M KOH. Besides, it exhibits high alkaline OER activity with an ultra-low overpotential of 200 mV at 10 mA cm–2. Moreover, this catalyst only needs 1.537 V in a dual-electrode configuration of the electrolytic cell, which is much lower than the commercial Pt/C-RuO2 couple (1.614 V). In addition, we have developed and constructed a solar thermoelectric generator (TEG) that is capable of floating on water. This TEG has a continuous power output and an exceptionally long lifespan, providing a stable power supply to the synthesized catalyst electrolyzer. It can produce a maximum power output of over 90 mW, meeting the requirement of converting solar radiation heat into usable electricity. As a result, the system achieves productivity of 0.11 mL min–1 H2. This solar thermal energy conversion technology shows the possibility of large-scale industrial production of H2 and provides a new idea for exploring heat source utilization.

Band gap engineering of vacancy-ordered halide perovskite Cs2SnCl6 from substitutional doping of Pt (Cs2Sn(1-x)PtxCl6 where x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00) and its effects on thermoelectric properties using the first-principles approach

Researchers have shown substantial interest in vacancy-ordered halide perovskites for non-traditional energy harvesting applications including solar cells and thermoelectric generators. In this study we performed band gap engineering of vacancy-ordered halide perovskite Cs2SnCl6 from substitutional doping of Pt (Cs2Sn(1-x)PtxCl6 where x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00) and studied its effects on thermoelectric properties using first-principles approach. Thermodynamic stability has been proven by computing the formation energies and the tolerance factors. The band gaps were efficiently reduced to 2.50 eV from 3.61 eV by the band gap engineering approach of Pt doping. Consequently, the materials exhibited improved thermoelectric properties, including low thermal conductivities, high Seebeck coefficients, and high values of ZT. The maximum value of ZT = 2.27 was estimated for x = 1.00. The Pt doping technique can be deemed effective based on the enhanced structural and thermoelectric performance parameters.

Plasmonic Nanoparticles Boost Solar-to-Electricity Generation at Ambient Conditions.

Sunlight-to-electricity conversion using solar thermoelectric generators (STEGs) is a proven technology to meet our ever-growing energy demand. However, STEGs are often operated under a vacuum with customized thermoelectric materials to achieve high performance. In this work, the incorporation of plasmonic gold nanoparticle (AuNP) based solar absorbers enabled the efficient operation of STEGs under ambient conditions with commercially available thermoelectric devices. AuNPs enhanced the performance of STEG by ∼9 times, yielding an overall solar-to-electricity conversion efficiency of ∼9.6% under 7.5 W cm-2 solar irradiance at ambient conditions. Plasmonic heat dissipated by AuNPs upon solar irradiation was used as the thermal energy source for STEGs. High light absorptivity, photothermal conversion efficiency (∼95%), and thermal conductivity of AuNPs enabled the efficient generation and transfer of heat to STEGs, with minimal radiative and convective heat losses. The power generated from plasmon-powered STEGs is used to run electrical devices as well as produce green hydrogen via the electrolysis of water.

ADVANCED HYBRID SOLAR THERMOELECTRIC GENERATOR THEORETICAL ANALYSES

Due to the fact that much of the world’s best solar resources are inversely correlated with population centers, significant motivation exists for developing the technology, which can deliver reliable and autonomous conversion of sunlight into electricity. Thermoelectric generators (TEG) are gaining incremental ground in this area due to its extensive use in solar thermal application as power generators, known as solar thermoelectric generators (STEG). STEG systems are gaining significant interest in both, concentrated and non-concentrated systems and have been employed in hybrid configurations with the solar thermal and photovoltaic systems. In this dissertation, mainly studies of Hybrid Solar Thermoelectric Generators (HSTEG) configuration are presented. HSTEG systems are much less studied both experimentally and theoretically, despite their clear technoeconomic advantages. There is a scope for significant improvement in the performance (efficiency) and a need for detailed performance analysis to understand the fundamentals of the energy transfer process. HSTEG systems (conventional) reported till date, initially the solar energy is utilized by the TEG for generating electricity and then transferred to other low temperature thermal cycles (heating or cooling). As an alternative one can design an advanced HSTEG system, in such way to first utilize the solar energy in the heat transfer fluid (HTF), which can run high temperature thermal cycle for heating or cooling or power generation) and then generate electricity by using TEG. Further, there is no advanced HSTEG system is available in the literature, which could deliver high temperature heat output from the hot side of the HSTEG system. Key Words: optics, photonics, light, lasers, stencils, journals

A Superhydrophobic Self-Cleaning Flexible Hydrogel for Solar Thermoelectric Power Generation

A Superhydrophobic Self-Cleaning Flexible Hydrogel for Solar Thermoelectric Power Generation

Mussel-Inspired Self-Adhesive and Tough Hydrogels for Effectively Cooling Solar Cells and Thermoelectric Generators.

Adhesive hydrogel-based evaporative cooling, which necessitates no electricity input, holds promise for reducing energy consumption in thermal management. Herein, inspired by the surface attachment of mussel adhesive proteins via abundant dynamic covalent bonds and noncovalent interactions, we propose a facile strategy to fabricate a self-adhesive cooling hydrogel (Li-AA-TA-PAM) using a copolymer of acrylamide (AM) and acrylic acid (AA) as the primary framework. The monomers formed hydrogen bonds between their carboxyl and amide groups, while tannic acid (TA), rich in catechol groups, enhances the adhesion of the hydrogel through hydrogen bonding. The hydrogel demonstrated strong adhesion to various material surfaces, including plastic, ceramic, glass, and metal. Even under high-speed rotation, it still maintains robust adhesion. The adhesion strength of the Li-AA-TA-PAM hydrogel to aluminum foil reached an impressive value of 296.875 kPa. Interestingly, the excellent contact caused by robust adhesion accelerates heat transfer, resulting in a rapid cooling performance, which mimics the perspiration of mammals. Lithium bromide (LiBr) with hydroactively sorptive sites is introduced to enhance sorption kinetics, thereby extending the effective cooling period. Consequently, the operation temperature of commercial polycrystalline silicon solar cells was reduced by 16 °C under an illumination of 1 kW m-2, and the corresponding efficiency of energy conversion was increased by 1.14%, thereby enhancing the output properties and life span of solar cells. The strategy demonstrates the potential for refrigeration applications using viscous gels.

Impedance spectroscopy analysis of thermoelectric modules under actual energy harvesting operating conditions and a small temperature difference

Thermoelectric (TE) devices can convert heat into electricity and have gained great interest as energy harvesters in many applications, such as self-powered sensors, solar TE generators and industrial waste heat recovery. Not many techniques are usually available for their characterization under operating conditions. Consequently, only current-voltage (power output) curves are typically reported to account for their performance, which provide limited information. Impedance spectroscopy, which has been mainly applied to the study of TE modules suspended in air or vacuum, has the advantage to be used under operating conditions. Here, we exploit this advantage and provide an in-depth analysis of the impedance response of standard TE devices when they operate under a small temperature difference. First, we derive the physical models (equivalent circuits) for the two most common operating conditions: (i) constant temperature difference and (ii) constant heat power input. Then, we use the obtained equivalent circuit to successfully fit experimental impedance measurements in both operating modes, which show significant differences. From the fittings, it is possible to obtain the thermal contact resistance between the TE device and the heat exchangers (heat source and heat sink) among other key parameters. In addition, we analyze the variations found in the impedance spectra for different current output levels. Moreover, we show how different electrical resistances, extracted from the impedance results, directly relate to the slope of the I-V curve (power output), and can provide very valuable information about the different processes that determine its value. All these results establish impedance spectroscopy as a very powerful tool to characterize TE devices under operating conditions and as a method that can provide highly valuable insights into their performance.

Lead free A2NaInI6 (A = Cs, Rb, K) double perovskites for optoelectronic and thermoelectric applications

Alkali metal substitution in double perovskites is an appropriate approach to deliberate tuning of band edges which play a vital role in bandgap engineering of emerging semiconducting materials. Here we tuned the optoelectronic behavior by carefully engineering the band edges in A2NaInI6 (A = Cs, Rb, K) systems and by tuning the alkali atoms at A site using density functional theory based WIEN2K code. First of all, the unit cell is relaxed to find the optimized lattice parameters. The substitution of smaller-sized cation at the A site leads to the reduction in lattice parameter which shifts the absorption edge towards a shorter wavelength and reduces the bandgap energy. The value of bandgap energy is noticed at 1.60 eV for Cs2NaInI6 which increases to 1.65 and 1.70 eV for Rb2NaInI6 and K2NaInI6 respectively. The computation of the elastic constant’s dependent modulus of elasticity and the Pugh and Poisson ratio confirm their brittle nature. Their viability for solar-thermoelectric generators is carried out by computing the temperature-dependent transport parameters using the BoltzTrap code showing the potential of these systems for solar thermoelectric generators.

A Novel Application of a Parabolic Trough Collector for Solar Cooking, Thermal Storage and Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting

The work here involves designing a solar solution for safe cooking and low-power generation intended for application in rural communities. A system was developed that combines Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) technologies. The CSP provides heat for clean cooking, and the excess heat is harvested by the TEG and converted into electrical power. A storage tank was integrated into the system, storing excess energy and serving as the medium for indirect cooking and supplying the heat required by the TEG. The Parabolic Trough Collector, having a resulting average thermal efficiency value of 21%, provided the useful energy to store over 4.25kWh of heat in the tank during the initial testing of the system. The TEG developed has four Peltier modules and attained 23W - over 80% of their rated power and a maximum conversion efficiency of 4.14% at a temperature difference of 220°C between the cold and hot surfaces of the generator. During the experiment, the TEG operation was limited to only four hours before subjecting a no-load test to assess the total energy storable from the system. The initial results from the test carried out here show the potential of the hybrid system in storing energy in the tank for an extended period and simultaneous operation of the TEG. Excess energy stored can be utilised further in providing the heat required for cooking or further electrical power generation.

Unveiling the DFT perspectives on structural, elastic, optoelectronic, and thermoelectric properties of zirconate perovskites XZrO3 (X = Ca, Sr, Ba)

A thorough comparative study of lead free zirconate perovskite XZrO3 (X = Ca, Sr, Ba) is carried out employing WIEN2k which is a density functional theory based code. A good agreement between reported synthesis and the theoretical results is observed. BaZrO3 can be inferred as the most stable compound among XZrO3 (X = Ca, Sr, Ba) as its ground state energy is lowest. According to the Burn-Haun criterion, the compounds under research are mechanically stable. The ductile nature, anisotropy, and reasonable resistance to deformation in response to external stress are observed. The semiconducting nature of the compounds is observed having indirect band gaps with values of 3.25 eV, 3.71 eV, and 3.80 eV. Exceptional optical absorption peaks for the investigated compounds can be observed in UV region (around 5.0 eV) which suggests their numerous optoelectronic applications within UV. XZrO3 (X = Ca, Sr, Ba) are active optical materials as their refractive inrdex n(ω) occurs in the range of 1.0 and 2.0. Thermoelectric properties of these compounds are also very promising since the large Seebeck coefficients (∼2250–2700 μV/K), large power factor values (∼1011 W/mK2s), and figure of merits are very close to the unity are observed. The mechanical stability and ductility, and the appealing optical and thermoelectric properties of the examined compounds persuade us that these compounds may play a significant role for numerous industrial applications like solar cells, LEDs, sensors, thermoelectric generators and other energy conversion devices in the future.

High-Entropy Photothermal Materials.

High-entropy (HE) materials, celebrated for their extraordinary chemical and physical properties, have garnered increasing attention for their broad applications across diverse disciplines. The expansive compositional range of these materials allows for nuanced tuning of their properties and innovative structural designs. Recent advances have been centered on their versatile photothermal conversion capabilities, effective across the full solar spectrum (300-2500nm). The HE effect, coupled with hysteresis diffusion, imparts these materials with desirable thermal and chemical stability. These attributes position HE materials as a revolutionary alternative to traditional photothermal materials, signifying a transformative shift in photothermal technology. This review delivers a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge regarding HE photothermal materials, emphasizing the intricate relationship between their compositions, structures, light-absorbing mechanisms, and optical properties. Furthermore, the review outlines the notable advances in HE photothermal materials, emphasizing their contributions to areas, such as solar water evaporation, personal thermal management, solar thermoelectric generation, catalysis, and biomedical applications. The review culminates in presenting a roadmap that outlines prospective directions for future research in this burgeoning field, and also outlines fruitful ways to develop advanced HE photothermal materials and to expand their promising applications.

Recent advances of spectrally selective absorbers: Materials, nanostructures, and photothermal power generation

With the increasing development of photothermal techniques in various fields, particularly concentrated solar power (CSP) systems and solar thermoelectric generators (STEGs), the demand for high-performance spectrally selective absorbers (SSAs) has grown significantly. These SSAs are essential in achieving high solar absorption and minimal infrared thermal loss, thereby significantly enhancing solar utilization efficiency. This need becomes particularly critical in CSP systems, where high temperatures are pivotal for improved efficiency. However, the necessity for high temperatures imposes stringent requirements on the fabrication of SSAs, given the inherent trade-off between optical performance and thermal stability. SSAs typically require nanoscale thin films, but they are prone to oxidation and diffusion at high temperatures. Recent developments in photothermal materials, including ceramic composites, MXenes, high-entropy materials, and graphene, offer promising solutions to enhance SSAs’ performance. This review article provides a comprehensive evaluation of the latest advancements in these emerging photothermal materials. We summarize the strategies for integrating these advanced materials with already established nanostructures, which is a highly promising approach for the development of advanced SSAs. Additionally, the review explores the application of SSAs in CSP systems and STEGs to boost power generation efficiency. We conclude by summarizing the challenges and opportunities in the field of high-temperature SSAs, offering valuable insights into the development of high-performance SSAs and their role in solar-thermal power generation systems.

Polyol-assisted efficient hole transfer and utilization at the Si-based photoanode/electrolyte interface

The sluggish kinetics of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction significantly restricts the efficiency of silicon (Si)-based photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells. In this study, we employ microfabrication technology to batch-prepare reproducible Si substrates, and develop a facile electrodeposition technique to load high-quality nickel film onto the substrates. Innovatively, we introduce energetically favorable polyols (such as glycerol, propylene glycol, and ethylene glycol) into the electrolyte, resulting in a remarkably low onset potential and a high hole injection efficiency during the PEC oxidation process. Taking glycerol as an example, in-situ impendence spectra provide real-time evidence for the accelerated hole transfer and utilization at the photoanode/electrolyte interface in the presence of glycerol. Mechanistic studies further reveal that glycerol undergoes synergistic oxidation mediated by holes and catalysts. Finally, by intergrating a solar thermoelectric generator into a PEC polyol oxidation cell, the self-powered system demonstrates promising potential for producing valuable products solely by harnessing solar energy.

Mathematical analysis of the solar assisted thermoelectric generator

The direct conversion of solar energy into electrical energy is primarily dependent on the photovoltaic systems. However, in the last few decades, researchers have shown interest to work on the thermoelectric modules for direct conversion of solar thermal energy into electrical energy based on the Seebeck effect. This research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of various Solar Thermoelectric Generator (STEG) designs, focusing on their conversion efficiencies. Despite the comparatively lower efficiency of STEG in comparison to photovoltaic (PV) cells, owing to limitations in the figure of merit value and temperature differences between hot and cold sides of the thermoelectric modules, this study proposes strategies for enhancement. Approaches include the development of materials with higher figure of merit values, design optimization, solar tracking, heat storage systems, and efficient heat sink designs. Also, Mathematical analysis of the power and efficiency calculation of a STEG has been presented on the basis of some fundamental and derived mathematical equations. The overall efficiency of STEG, a product of Opto-thermal Efficiency and thermoelectric module efficiency, is explored, identifying an optimal hot side temperature for maximum efficiency. Module mismatch analyses for series and parallel connections are also derived, underscoring conditions for mitigating power loss. These findings serve as guidelines for designing more feasible and efficient STEG systems, with considerations for economic viability, sustainability and greenhouse gas reduction throughout the life cycle.

Fabrication of low-cost flexible thermoelectric generator using conductive HB graphite paint operated by solar radiation

Paper-based flexible thin film thermoelectric generators have emerged as a promising and feasible alternative to organic and inorganic conductors due to their ability to operate at room temperature within a limited temperature range. Here, a flexible solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) designed from a single material has been introduced, prepared by a simple painting method. We prepared HB graphite-based conductive paint and demonstrated a very unique method to design flexible STEG devices. The graphite paint shows p-type semiconductive behaviour, while, in conjunction with the polyethyleneimine (PEI) polymer, it acts as an n-type material. Based on the transport properties, the paint appears to be a good candidate for designing STEG devices. At room temperature, the power factor of 378 nW m−1 K−2 for p-type paint and 1.51 nW m−1 K−2 for n-type paint is obtained. In order to examine flexibility over the long term, the performance of the material was inspected through 300 repeated cycles, and transport properties (conductivity) were found to increase from 21 700 S m−1 to 73 500 S m−1 due to the excellent emulsifying properties of gum Arabic, which were confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscope analysis. To evaluate the performance of the thermoelectric (TE) generator, eight pairs of p–n legs are fabricated on normal copier (80 GSM) paper, and an output voltage of ∼0.1 mV K−1 (∼5.5 mV) for a temperature gradient T of up to ∼60 K was achieved. Further, the performance of flexible TE devices can be improved by increasing the number of thermoelectric legs and by sandwiching the device between Kapton tapes. Our work suggests a promising and simple approach to achieving cost-effective conversion of solar energy into electricity and highlights the potential of flexible STEGs for low-power applications.

Unidirectionally Structured Magnetic Phase-Change Composite Based on Carbonized Polyimide/Kevlar Nanofiber Complex Aerogel for Boosting Solar-Thermo-Electric Energy Conversion.

To realize highly efficient solar-thermo-electric energy conversion for clean electricity power generation, we have developed a new type of unidirectionally structured magnetic phase-change composite comprising a carbonized polyimide (C-PI)/Kevlar nanofiber (KNF) complex aerogel as a 3D carbon skeleton porous supporting material, CoFe2O4 nanoparticles as a magnetic additive, polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a phase-change material, and polypyrrole as a photothermal absorption coating layer. The as-fabricated C-PI/KNF complex aerogel exhibits a unidirectional microstructure, high porosity, robust skeleton frame, ultralight weight, and high thermal conductance. Featured with such unique structure and characteristics, the complex aerogel can offer an effective heat and electron transfer method to ensure highly efficient solar-thermal conversion and photothermal energy storage of the developed composite. The developed composite exhibits a high latent heat capacity of over 150 J g-1, outstanding shape stability along with a low leakage of 0.2 wt %, good thermal cycling stability, and high photothermal conversion efficiency of 84.8%. Based on the Seebeck effect, a solar thermoelectric generation system (STEGS) was constructed with the hot side coupled with the developed composite and the cold side immersed in air and ice water. Under 2.0 kW m-2 solar irradiation, the developed STEGS in ice water obtained maximum output voltage and current of 259.7 mV and 27.1 mA, respectively, which are significantly higher than those in air. The output power of the developed STEGS in an ice water environment is 50.6% higher than that in air under 4.0 kW m-2 solar irradiation. More importantly, the developed STEGS in ice water continuously generated output voltage and current for about 810 s without solar irradiation thanks to the latent heat release by the PEG component within the developed composite. In addition, the introduction of magnetic CoFe2O4 can accelerate solar-thermal conversion through periodic electron motion by the Néel relaxation or Brownian relaxation. This resulted in an increase in the maximum output voltage and current by 13.7 and 11.5%, respectively, under an alternating magnetic field as a result of the magnetism-accelerated solar-thermo-electric conversion. This study offers an innovative approach for developing PCM-based advanced functional materials for solar energy utilization in clean and sustainable electricity generation.