Thermal Photo-Voltaic Cell Simulation Using Comsol Multi physics

Abstract

Thermal Photovoltaic (TPV) combine the solar thermal and photovoltaic systems. This technique benefits from both light and heat of the solar radiation to produce electricity. Research in TPV systems is rapidly growing with more methods and techniques to increase the overall efficiency, reduce the cost, improve the modeling, and maintain the system for long periods of time and employing them for suitable application. The paper aims to study some of the research conducted in this field in order to understand and derive key points to producing more research and providing constructive and accurate criticism for the work presented. Also a detailed explanation of TPV systems' principles and operation is presented. Classifications of TPV in terms of absorber design, shape of pipes, PV configuration, type of working fluid (base-fluid) and type of PV panels are all discussed in the literature survey. Finally, it is concluded that there is a clear lack in electrical, economic and environmental evaluations, where most of articles in TPV are dominated by the thermal study of the system.