Numerical simulation and experimental study of a novel hybrid system coupling photovoltaic and solar fuel for electricity generation

Development of solar power is a promising route to achieve the target of carbon neutrality. However, the cost-effective conversion of full spectrum solar energy is always a challenge because of the limitations of individual photovoltaics and solar thermal power. Here, a novel concentrated solar power system is proposed, which properly partitions incoming solar energy between the photovoltaics and thermochemistry, by the sunlight concentrating and spectral splitting method of parabolic trough collector. The partial visible and near-infrared sunlight is converted to electricity using the monocrystalline silicon photovoltaics, and the other sunlight drives methanol decomposition reaction to generate solar syngas, as a fuel in solid oxide fuel cell, providing flexible and stable electrical power. Mathematical model and finite element method are combined to calculate PV power and thermochemical power respectively. Furthermore, a solar power experimental platform is designed and experimentally tested. A solar power of 1532 W and a realistic solar power efficiency of 26.4% are achieved, with a maximum dispatchability exceeding 80%. Compared with the concentrated solar power systems existing, the proposed system shows a great competitiveness and potential both in conversion efficiency and electrical dispatchability for large-scale application. The novel solar power system can be considered an applicable and feasible approach to full spectrum solar conversion.

Automated summary

This study proposes a novel concentrated solar power system that effectively converts full spectrum solar energy by properly partitioning it between photovoltaics and thermochemistry. The system achieves high conversion efficiency and dispatchability, making it a competitive option for large-scale application.