Transmissive Concentrating Photovoltaic Module for Combined High-Efficiency Electricity and Thermal Energy Generation
Most solar panels today waste a large portion of the sun's energy, especially heat, because they aren't designed to capture different types of sunlight efficiently. This technology will boost solar energy systems by capturing both electricity and heat from sunlight.
The following technologies are offered as a “bundle” or can be pursued individually.
- Infared-Transparent Photovoltaics for Coupling Solar Electric to Solar Thermal Energy Generation
- Huygens Metalens
- Schottky-Junction Photovoltaics using Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides
- Concentrated solar photovoltaic and photothermal system for energy generation and storage
- Sunflower receiver for Hybrid CPV/T energy conversion
- Direct Fluid Cooling Solar module for Hybrid Photovoltaic-Solar Thermal Energy Conversion
- Transmissive Concentrating Photovoltaic Module for Combined High-Efficiency Electricity and Thermal Energy Generation
The Problem
Most solar panels today waste a large portion of the sun's energy, especially heat, because they aren't designed to capture different types of sunlight efficiently. Traditional systems either focus on generating electricity or collecting heat, but not both. This limits how much energy they can produce and makes them less effective for industrial or large-scale use. There is a need for solar technologies that can split and use all parts of sunlight—turning light into electricity while also capturing heat—to maximize energy output and improve efficiency across applications.
The Solution
This technology will boost solar energy systems by capturing both electricity and heat from sunlight. It uses a special type of solar panel that converts visible light into electricity and sends heat-generating infrared light to a thermal collector. This makes solar setups much more efficient, especially for large-scale or industrial use.
The Opportunity
This high-efficiency hybrid PV/T solar system is ideal for commercial and industrial energy providers looking to maximize output from limited space. Its combined generation and storage capabilities make it well-suited for off-grid sites, remote infrastructure, or eco-conscious campuses aiming for net-zero. With strong field data and modular design, it’s ready for custom-integrated renewable energy projects in sun-rich regions.
