The majority of photovoltaic power generation applications are remote, off-grid applications. These include communication satellites, terrestrial communication sites, remote homes and villages, and water pumps. These are sometimes hybrid systems that include an engine-driven generator to charge batteries when solar power is insufficient.
TE devices can be integrated into solar power generation systems to collect heat from (1) the cooling system of PV solar panels simply by combining TE modules to collect waste heat from the coolant; or (2) using a sun beam splitter to absorb heat from solar radiation apart from the PV system.
Based on that, after many years of research and development from scientists worldwide, solar energy technology is classified into two key applications: solar thermal and solar PV. PV systems convert the Sun’s energy into electricity by utilizing solar panels.
The major factors that limit the use of solar energy for various applications is that, it is cyclic time-dependent energy source. Therefore, solar system requires energy storage to provide energy in the absence of insolation . Comprehensive research and advancement in energy storage technologies offers benefits for solar in energy application.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation is the process of converting energy from the sun into electricity using solar panels. Solar panels, also called PV panels, are combined into arrays in a PV system. PV systems can also be installed in grid-connected or off-grid (stand-alone) configurations.
Several factors influence the efficiency of photovoltaic devices: material properties, cell design, temperature, solar spectrum, reflection and absorption losses, inverter efficiency, dirt, and shading .