TEG (Thermoelectric Generator) and PV (Photovoltaic) systems are both technologies that generate electricity, but they do so using different principles and energy sources. TEGs convert heat directly into electricity, while PV systems convert light (primarily sunlight) directly into electricity.
Thermoelectric Generator (TEG)
- Principle: TEGs utilize the Seebeck effect, a phenomenon where a temperature difference between two different electrical conductors or semiconductors creates a voltage difference between them.
- Energy Source: Heat. This can be waste heat from industrial processes, combustion engines, or even body heat.
- Applications:
- Waste heat recovery in automobiles and industrial plants.
- Remote power generation in areas where grid electricity is unavailable.
- Wearable devices powered by body heat.
- Deep space probes powered by radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs).
- Advantages:
- Silent operation (no moving parts).
- Scalable (can be designed for small or large power outputs).
- Reliable (long lifespan with minimal maintenance).
- Disadvantages:
- Relatively low efficiency (typically 5-10%, but can be higher in specialized applications).
- Higher cost per watt compared to PV in many applications.
- Efficiency depends on maintaining a significant temperature differential.
Photovoltaic (PV)
- Principle: PV cells use the photovoltaic effect, where photons in light strike a semiconductor material (typically silicon), releasing electrons and creating an electric current.
- Energy Source: Light (primarily sunlight).
- Applications:
- Residential and commercial solar panels.
- Solar farms for large-scale electricity generation.
- Solar-powered calculators and other small devices.
- Spacecraft power systems.
- Advantages:
- Renewable and clean energy source.
- Relatively high efficiency (commercially available panels can reach 20% or higher).
- Lower cost per watt compared to TEGs in many applications.
- Disadvantages:
- Intermittent power generation (dependent on sunlight availability).
- Requires energy storage (batteries) for continuous power supply.
- Manufacturing processes can have environmental impacts.
- Performance affected by temperature and shading.
TEG vs PV: Key Differences in a Table
| Feature | TEG (Thermoelectric Generator) | PV (Photovoltaic) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Source | Heat | Light (Sunlight) |
| Working Principle | Seebeck Effect | Photovoltaic Effect |
| Efficiency | Typically 5-10% | Typically 15-25% |
| Noise | Silent | Silent |
| Application | Waste Heat Recovery, Remote Power | Solar Panels, Solar Farms |
| Cost | Generally Higher (per watt) | Generally Lower (per watt) |
| Availability | Less common, specialized applications | Widespread, readily available |
In summary, TEGs and PV systems offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. TEGs are valuable for harnessing waste heat, while PV excels at converting solar energy into electricity. The best choice depends on the specific application and available energy source.
