Current state of Research in the Field of Hybrid Thermoelectric Systems for Solar Energy Conversion

Amidst growing demand for renewable energy, hybrid systems combining solar and thermoelectric power generation are attracting significant attention from researchers. Thermoelectric generators, which convert thermal energy directly into electricity, offer the possibility of utilizing waste heat from solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic panels, thereby enhancing the overall solar energy conversion efficiency. The article examines two primary system architectures: photo-thermoelectric hybrids and thermoelectric generators for solar energy conversion. Key challenges are analyzed in detail, such as thermal management, the development of materials with high figure‑of‑merit (ZT) values, and system integration optimization. Particular attention is paid to novel materials (high‑efficiency ferroelectrics, low‑dimensional structures) and innovative system design approaches. It is shown that recent work in this field has focused on optimizing the thermal contact between the photovoltaic module and the thermoelectric generator. Research indicates that the use of thermally conductive pastes and adhesives with low thermal resistance is critical. Furthermore, passive and active cooling systems for the cold side of the thermoelectric generator (e.g., using heat pumps or microchannel heat sinks) are being actively studied to maximize ΔT – the temperature difference between the hot and cold sides of the hybrid devices. Modeling and experimental data suggest that such hybrids can increase overall conversion efficiency by 5‑15% compared to a standalone photovoltaic module, depending on materials and lighting conditions. In conclusion, prospects and potential directions for future research are discussed.