A PVTC system integrating photon-enhanced thermionic emission and methane reforming for efficient solar power...

A new photovoltaic-thermochemical (PVTC) conceptual system integrating photon-enhanced thermionic emission (PETE) and methane steam reforming is proposed. Major novelty of the system lies in its potential adaptivity to primary fuels (e.g. methane) and high efficiencies of photovoltaic and thermochemical power generation, both of which result from its operation at much elevated temperatures (700-1000°C) compared with conventional photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems. Analysis shows that an overall power generation efficiency of 45.3% and a net solar-to-electric efficiency of 39.1% could be reached at an operating temperature of 750°C, after considering major losses during solar energy capture and conversion processes. The system is also featured by high solar share (37%) in the total power output, as well as high energy storage capability and very low CO₂ emissions, both enabled by the integration of methane reforming with photovoltaic generation at high temperatures.