Conference article

In this paper design for a combined TPV and solar power system for local heat and power production is discussed. PV cells are producing electricity when there is light; while TPV cells are used when it is dark. Biomass is combusted and the heat is generating photons for the TPV system. Higher combustion temperature will give higher electric output; but also faster deterioration of the materials in the combustor; where the temperature of the emitter is 1050-1250 ^oC. By combining PV-cells generating electric power summer time with TPV-cells generating electric power winter time; we can achieve a flexible local heat and power system all year round. As both systems generate DC-power; we also can see a potential to use the same DC components for e.g for charging batteries for electrical vehicles; DC-pumps; LED-lamps etc. Design criteria for the systems are discussed in this paper for a house that is principally self sufficient on energy. Both theoretical and practical obstacles are discussed; as there are a number of issues to solve before the technique can be used in ”real life”. The TPV system is not yet commercially available; but is tested in pilot scale.

Solar power; TPV; combination; heat; electricity