This paper describes the electricity supply system in the USA and Canada based on an analysis of the performance characteristics of the North America Electric Reliability Councils which regulate the interlinked generation capabilities of the two countries. It is shown that whereas the national average efficiency of production and delivery of electricity in the USA is 32%, the actual value varies between 22% and 47% depending on geographical location. For Canada, the range is 32% to 68% with a national average of 43%. A detailed analysis of the dependence of each area on the different primary fuels is also given. 相似文献
Solar energy application in a large spectrum has the potential for high-efficiency energy conversion. Though, solar cells can only absorb photon energy of the solar spectrum near their band-gap energy, and the remaining energy will be converted into thermal energy. The use of the thermoelectric generator becomes a necessity for convert this thermal energy dissipated so as to increase efficiency conversion.
This paper analyses the feasibility of photovoltaic-thermoelectric hybrid system and reviews their performance in order to optimize harvested energy. Regarding the thermoelectric effect, a new method of the ambient energy harvesting is presented. This method combines thermoelectric generators and the effects of heat sensitive materials associated to photovoltaic cells in phase change for generating both energy day and night. Experimental measures have been conducted primarily in laboratory conditions for a greater understanding of hybridization phenomena under real conditions and to test the actual performance of devices made. Results show that the hybrid system can generate more power than the simple PV and TEG in environmental conditions. This hybrid technology will highlight the use of renewable energies in the service of the energy production. 相似文献