An experimental model of a solar hybrid system including photovoltaic (PV) module, concentrating Fresnel lens, thermoelectric generator (TEG), and running water heat extracting unit was created and studied. The PV module used was of c-Si and TEG of Bi₂Te₃; the Fresnel lens (solar concentrator) and TEG share an optical train, whereas PV module was illuminated separately with non-concentrated light. Heat extracting unit operated in thermo siphon mode. In climatic conditions of Mexico (Queretaro, 20^o of North latitude, summer time), the Fresnel lens accepted 120 W of solar radiation power, and the system generated 7.0 W of electric power and 30 W of thermal one. The discussion is made of the possible characteristics of a hypothetical hybrid system where all its elements share the same optical train. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Highlights

• Experimental model of solar hybrid system is constructed and studied.
• The system includes PV module, thermoelectric generator, and heat extractor.
• Fresnel lens is used to concentrate radiation onto thermoelectric generator.
• Photovoltaic generator is illuminated by non-concentrated sunlight.
• To provide high electric and thermal efficiency, special PV module is necessary.