Using Cryogenics to Improve the Efficiency of Photovoltaic Solar Cells

POSTER

Abstract

Improving the reliability and profitability of green energy sources plays a crucial part in transitioning away from fossil fuels as an energy source. As a possible means of making solar energy production more efficient, we consider the effects of cryogenically treating photovoltaic (PV) solar panels at 300 Below, Inc. We report on the pre- and post-cryo performance of two different types of solar panels, when they are exposed to the same, artificial light source. Then, using NREL data, we project the financial benefits of adopting cryogenically treated solar panels throughout the United States over the next five years.

*300 Below Inc.

Authors

  • Hunter Somers

    • Department of Physics and Astronomy, Millikin University
    • Millikin University

  • Estefano Martinez

    • Center for Entrepreneurship, Millikin University

  • Grace Ganley

    • Center for Entrepreneurship, Millikin University

  • Daniel Rivera

    • Center for Entrepreneurship, Millikin University

  • Aric Hopp

    • Center for Entrepreneurship, Millikin University

  • Takunda Jakachira

    • Department of Physics and Astronomy, Millikin University

  • Andrea West

    • Department of Physics and Astronomy, Millikin University

  • Whitley Sapp

    • Department of Physics and Astronomy, Millikin University

  • Casey R. Watson

    • Department of Physics and Astronomy, Millikin University

  • Pete Paulin

    • 300 Below Inc.