The "Thermoelectric Solar Panel" project explores generating electricity from sunlight using a combination of solar thermal collection and thermoelectric generators (TEGs). A Fresnel lens concentrates sunlight onto a copper pipe painted black to maximize heat absorption. This heat is transferred to the hot side of TEGs, while the cold side is cooled by a heatsink and fan. The goal is to leverage the temperature difference across the TEGs to produce usable electricity, offering a potential alternative or complement to traditional photovoltaic solar panels. The initial prototype demonstrates the concept's viability, though efficiency and scalability remain key challenges for practical application.
Lightcell has developed a novel thermophotovoltaic (TPV) generator that uses concentrated sunlight to heat a specialized material to high temperatures. This material then emits specific wavelengths of light efficiently absorbed by photovoltaic cells, generating electricity. The system aims to offer higher solar-to-electricity conversion efficiency than traditional photovoltaics and to provide energy storage capabilities by utilizing the heat generated within the system. This technology is geared towards providing reliable, clean energy, particularly for grid-scale power generation.
Hacker News users express significant skepticism regarding Lightcell's claims of a revolutionary light-based engine. Several commenters point to the lack of verifiable data and independent testing, highlighting the absence of peer-reviewed publications and the reliance on marketing materials. The seemingly outlandish efficiency claims and vague explanations of the underlying physics fuel suspicion, with comparisons drawn to past "too-good-to-be-true" energy technologies. Some users call for more transparency and rigorous scientific scrutiny before accepting the company's assertions. The overall sentiment leans heavily towards disbelief, pending further evidence.
Summary of Comments ( 11 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43169244
Hacker News users discussed the practicality and efficiency of the thermoelectric solar panel described in the linked article. Several commenters pointed out the inherent low efficiency of thermoelectric generators, making them unsuitable for large-scale power generation compared to photovoltaic panels. Some suggested niche applications where the combined heat and electricity generation might be advantageous, such as powering remote sensors or in hybrid systems. The durability and lifespan of the proposed setup, especially concerning the vacuum chamber and selective coating, were also questioned. One commenter mentioned a similar project they had worked on, highlighting the challenges in achieving meaningful energy output. Overall, the consensus seemed to be that while conceptually interesting, the thermoelectric approach faces significant hurdles in becoming a viable alternative to existing solar technologies.
The Hacker News post titled "Thermoelectric Solar Panel," linking to an article on simplified thermosolar power generation, has generated several comments discussing the feasibility, efficiency, and potential applications of the proposed system.
Several commenters express skepticism about the overall efficiency of the system. One points out the inherent limitations of thermoelectric generators, noting their low efficiency compared to photovoltaic cells. They suggest that while the concept is interesting, the actual power output would likely be significantly lower than what could be achieved with traditional solar panels. Another commenter echoes this concern, questioning the claimed 14% efficiency, suggesting it might be overly optimistic and not account for real-world losses. A detailed analysis is requested, breaking down the efficiency of each component in the system to better understand the overall performance.
Others raise questions about the practicality of the design. One commenter highlights the challenges in maintaining a vacuum in a large, flat panel, especially considering the potential for leaks and the added manufacturing complexity. They also question the durability and lifespan of such a system, especially under harsh weather conditions. Another commenter emphasizes the importance of considering the cost-effectiveness of the proposed system, comparing it to existing solar technologies.
Some commenters offer alternative suggestions and modifications. One proposes using a Stirling engine instead of a thermoelectric generator, arguing that it could potentially improve the overall efficiency. Another suggests exploring different materials for the absorber and heat sink to optimize performance.
A few commenters express interest in the concept and its potential for niche applications. One commenter mentions the possibility of using the system in concentrated solar power applications, where the higher temperatures could lead to improved efficiency for thermoelectric generation. Another suggests its potential use in off-grid or remote locations where traditional solar panels might not be practical.
A recurring theme in the comments is the need for more data and experimental validation. Many commenters request further information on the testing methodology and results to verify the claimed efficiency and performance. They emphasize the importance of real-world testing to assess the feasibility and practicality of the proposed system.
Finally, some commenters engage in a discussion about the thermodynamics of the system, debating the theoretical limits of efficiency and the potential for improvements.