The performance analysis on a novel PV driven island dual-functional power generation and atmospheric water harvesting system

Abstract

This research addresses the critical challenge of reliable electricity and freshwater access for island communities, where conventional supply methods are costly and unsustainable. To tackle this, we developed and experimentally validated a hybrid PV–TEG–MOF system that integrates solar power generation with sorption-based atmospheric water harvesting. A high-performance MIL-101(Cr)/Fin composite was synthesized and coupled with photovoltaic and thermoelectric modules, followed by testing under controlled laboratory conditions and realistic outdoor environments, supported by numerical modeling. Results showed under 1000 W/m² irradiation an average PV output of 130 W/m², TEG power of 3.34 W/m², and water production of 100 mL/(kg·h). Outdoor tests yielded 48 W/m² PV output, 1.74–1.58 W/m² nocturnal TEG output, and 240 mL/m² daily water yield. Simulations confirmed that a 1000 m² system could provide 120 W/m² electricity and 66 mL/(m²·h) water, meeting daily needs of 300 people. These findings demonstrate the system's potential as a scalable, sustainable solution for integrated energy–water provision in remote islands, reducing dependency on external supplies and supporting resilient, low-carbon resource security.