A spectral-splitting photovoltaic-thermochemical system for energy storage and solar power generation

A hybrid solar energy conversion and storage system integrating a CdTe solar cell and methanol thermochemistry with a spectral filter assigning different parts of the solar spectrum is proposed. A thermodynamic model and an optical model are established to study the photovoltaic and thermal performance of this system. The results show that the system features high solar power generation efficiency (up to 39%) and good potential for solar thermal energy storage (up to 60%) as a result of both spectral filtering and the manipulation of individual linear Fresnel reflectors, which also considerably enhance control flexibility. Sensitivity analysis shows that the system remains highly effective in solar to power conversion against non-ideal conditions. The economic assessment indicates that the levelized cost of electricity is as low as $ 0.20/kWh.