We report the design, optimization, and experimental results of large area commercial silicon solar cell based thermophotovoltaic (TPV) energy conversion systems. Using global non-linear optimization tools, we demonstrate theoretically a maximum radiative heat-to-electricity efficiency of 6.4% and a corresponding output electrical power density of 0.39 W cm(-2) at temperature T = 1660 K when im...

Nano-scaled metallic or dielectric structures may provide various ways to trap light into thin-film solar cells for improving the conversion efficiency. In most schemes, the textured active layers are involved into light trapping structures that can provide perfect optical benefits but also bring undesirable degradation of electrical performance. Here we propose a novel approach to design high-...

We demonstrate how organic solar cell efficiency can be increased by introducing a pure polymer interlayer between the PEDOT:PSS layer and the polymer:fullerene blend. We observe an increase in device efficiency with three different material systems over a number of devices. Using both electrical characterization and numerical modeling we show that the increase in efficiency is caused by optica...

For the purpose of light extraction and efficiency enhancement, the nitride-based ultraviolet vertical-injection light-emitting diodes (UV-VLEDs) with non-insulation current blocking layer (n-CBL) and optimized textured surface were fabricated. The optical and electrical characteristics were investigated in this n-CBL UV-VLED. Furthermore, the efficiency of optimized structure was improved by 5...

Multichromophoric dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) comprised of a supramolecular zinc-phthalocyanineperyleneimide (ZnPc···PMI) dyad convert light to electrical energy with much higher power conversion efficiency (PCE = 2.3%) and incident-photon-to-current-efficiency (IPCE = ca. 40%) than the devices made of individual dyes.

This paper presents the results from a combined experimental and simulation analysis of a prototype photovoltaic facade when subjected to conditions typical of UK climate seasons. The departure of the electrical efficiency from peak published values is measured and the efficiency improvement associated with facade operation in combined power and heat recovery mode is estimated.

There can be a significant discrepancy between predicted and measured power conversion efficiency when using piezoelectric polymers for thermal energy harvesting. The influence of temperature and strain on electrical parameters can impact overall performances. We report the temperature and strain dependence of PVDF dielectric constant and losses and their impact on power conversion efficiency o...

by developing the level of life in societies, the need for new resources of energy becomes more important. in almost all cases, the aim is to convert one form of energy to the electrical form. with advances of technology and use of new electric and electronic devices and gadgets, the need for electrical energy is increasing and providing stable and continuous electric power becomes very importa...

The efficiency is of paramount importance nowadays due to increasing electrical energy demand, increasing awareness of environmental problems as greenhouse effects and increasing fossil fuel prices. This paper tries to show the different results between the standards for efficiency evaluation and the necessity of harmonization worldwide. Then, it is going to be explained the different standards...