Abstract
Photovoltaic (PV) technology is a cornerstone of the global energy transition; however, its large-scale deployment is constrained by efficiency losses at elevated temperatures and the intermittent nature of solar irradiation. This review provides a comprehensive and systematic assessment of advanced hybrid systems, with a focus on the photovoltaic-thermoelectric generator-phase change material (PV-TEG-PCM) architecture, aiming to synthesise the currently fragmented knowledge across the three subsystems into a unified system-level framework. The PV-TEG-PCM system enables coupled thermal-electrical energy management, improving energy utilization and enhancing the temporal stability of power output. Phase change materials act as both thermal buffers and energy storage media, reducing PV operating temperature during daytime and releasing stored heat to extend thermoelectric generation beyond daylight hours under favorable thermal conditions. This review evaluates the fundamental principles of PV, TEG, and PCM technologies, and analyses recent advances in materials (e.g., nano-enhanced PCMs and functionally graded thermoelectrics), system configurations, and modelling approaches for performance optimization. Key performance indicators, including efficiency, power density, and reliability, are compared across reported systems. Overall, PV-TEG-PCM systems offer a promising pathway to improve the efficiency, reliability, and temporal flexibility of solar energy. Future research priorities include advanced materials development, intelligent control strategies, and integrated techno-economic and lifecycle assessments.
•Presents the comprehensive review of ternary PV-TEG-PCM systems.•Analyzes PV thermal management challenges and PCM integration strategies.•Examines PV intermittency issues and thermoelectric conversion technologies.•Elucidates synergistic mechanisms for post-sunset power generation.•Summarizes optimizations for improved power-output stability.