A hybrid system of solar photovoltaic, thermal and hydrogen: A future trend

Solar photovoltaic technology has been reviewed in a semi-technical manner with special reference to materials used and devices designed. The importance of the use of crystalline silicon with its high efficiency is explained. The low cost of amorphous silicon and thin film technology seems to make them good future prospects. Other materials for high efficiency and use in relatively more aggressive environments have been discussed with appropriate designs. The recent trend in concentrator collectors is briefly introduced. In this context, the concept of making a hybrid power plant utilizing both solar thermal, photovoltaic and hydrogen is introduced. Hydrogen is proposed for use as an energy carrier for storage and as a fuel, as well as for replacing liquid and gaseous fossil fuels.