Thermophotovoltaics - a New Concept Evolving in Energy Conversion: Summary of a Panel Session Presentation

Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) systems are designed to produce direct-current electrical energy via high-temperature semiconductors receiving radiant energy from the combustion of fuel. Unique system elements and design are required to maximize the transfer of energy from the flame to a radiator to the receiving cells and cooling apparatus. The new concept of a micron-gap TPV system (MTPV) is also discussed. This panel session presentation is a basic introduction to these concepts, which have more potential for non-grid-connected distributed generation (DG) applications than typical grid-connected DG.