SOLAR ROOF TILES AND MODULES WITH HEAT EXCHANGE.

摘要

A photovoltaic tile and module with photovoltaic cell and a heat sink. The heat sink is attached on a side of the cell opposite to the light-receiving side of the photovoltaic cell and can remove heat caused by light absorbed by the photovoltaic cell but not converted to electricity as well as heat generated by electrical resistance. A photovoltaic tile or module formed of such cells can exhibit greater energy conversion efficiency as a result of the ability to dissipate the heat. The tiles can be arranged on a roof to protect the roof structure and generate electricity. Photovoltaic tiles comprising interlocking mechanical and electrical connections for ease of installation are described. The modules can be designed to place over an existing finished roof. Methods of making photovoltaic tiles and modules involve e.g., laminating a heat sink to a photovoltaic cell and/or injection molding.