All-day solar power generation enabled by photo/thermoelectric conversion and thermal energy storage

Thermoelectric materials hold promises for direct conversion of heat into electricity, making them viable power sources for electronic devices. However, their practical applications in diverse outdoor environment are hindered by limited and discontinuous electricity output. In this study, we propose an all-day solar power generator to achieve highly efficient and continuous electricity generation by harnessing the synergistic effects of photoelectric-thermoelectric conversion and latent thermal energy storage. The all-day solar power generator exhibits an average open-circuit voltage of 6.8 mV during daylight and a remaining 0.9 mV during nighttime. Importantly, the all-day solar power generator achieves dependable outdoor power supply for communication transmission in diverse environmental scenarios. Our research opens a new way for highly efficient and sustainable power generation.