ABSTRACT: The article demonstrates that spectral splitting of solar radiation into separate spectra, and converting each spectrum into usable energy, can allow for very high conversion efficiency (of sunlight to electricity) – as much as 60% or more, whereas the efficiency of standard solar panels is about 20%. Our main efforts were directed at the sun’s shorter wavelengths, for which we examined a photochemical conversion solution, combined with the optical measurement of appropriate chemicals. For higher wavelengths, we used photovoltaic (PV) and thermal conversion.

This is a multidisciplinary topic that combines optics, chemistry, thermodynamics, and photovoltaic conversion. The article presents a basic design for a thermal collector based on existing off-the-shelf components or components that could be serially manufactured using existing solar industry methods, i.e., at a competitive price.