Hybrid Solar Technologies (HST)
...to the homepage of Hybrid Solar Technologies (HST) Lab led by Dr. Gan Huang. We aim at harnessing infinite solar energy and the universe coldness to tackle global climate challenges!
Research
Our research integrates experimental and modeling approaches to advance next-generation solar energy technologies. Our focus is on leveraging solar energy and universe coldness to develop sustainable solutions for cooling, heating, electricity generation, and solar fuels. We work across material, device, and system levels. HST lab leads the below research topics:
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Next-generation hybrid solar photovoltaic-thermal technologies for zero-carbon heating and electricityThis research explores spectral-splitting photovoltaic-thermal technologies to enhance solar energy utilization. By employing semi-transparent photovoltaics, selectively-absorptive optical liquids, and nano-film reflective mirrors, we aim to maximize both electricity generation and thermal energy collection. These innovations lead to high-performance solar collectors for zero-carbon heating and power generation. |
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Harvesting the coldness from the universe for sustainable cooling under solar radiation (UNICOS)UNICOS harnesses the coldness of the universe to enable sustainable cooling even under direct solar radiation. This research investigates various nano/micro photonic materials and devices of radiative cooling, optimizing it for system applications in buildings, water harvesting, and vehicles. Additionally, UNICOS integrates radiative cooling with hybrid solar technologies, creating efficient solutions that simultaneously utilize both the heat of the sun and the cold of space. |
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Solar fuel technologies and systemsConverting solar energy into fuels provides a promising solution for energy storage and extended solar applications. Our research focuses on high-efficiency hybrid solar-to-hydrogen systems, utilizing full-spectrum sunlight and advanced micro-fluidic membrane-less electrolyzers to achieve maximum solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency. |
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Advanced thermal and spectrum managementElectronic devices (e.g., photovoltaics and chips) and human-made structures (e.g., greenhouses) often face thermal and/or spectral challenges. Leveraging state-of-the-art micro/nano-fabrication and upscaling technologies at the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT), we explore advanced materials for innovative thermal and spectral management, aiming to enhance device performance. |
Interdisciplinary research collaboration
Hybrid Solar Technologies (HST) Lab actively collaborates with interdisciplinary research groups, including the Nanophotonics for Energy (N4E) lab at KIT (Link) for UNICOS, Next Generation Photovoltaics lab at KIT (Link) on perovskite photovoltaics, and IAM-EC at KIT (Link) on electrochemical for solar fuel, and so on. By driving innovation in hybrid solar technologies, we aim to advance the field through strong interdisciplinary partnerships. We welcome opportunities to collaborate with academic and industry partners on joint research, project applications, and innovation transfer, fostering new ideas and impactful developments in sustainable energy solutions.
The Helmholtz Association has awarded €1.5 million to Gan Huang for an independent Helmholtz Investigator Group. His research will focus on pioneering strategies to co-harvest energy from the sun and the universe, driving advancements in sustainable energy solutions.
Karina won the prestigious Applied Photonics Award 2024 for her master’s thesis on hybrid PV-thermal and radiative cooling technology for tri-generation of electricity, heating, and cooling. (Link)
Gan Huang was invited to the President Honor Night 2024 and received a prize from KIT President Prof. Dr. Jan S. Hesthaven.
Our research on radiative cooling and indoor light management using a transparent, self-cleaning polymer-based metamaterial has been published in Nature Communications! The work was also featured on the KIT front page and beyond. (Link)
Gan Huang received the Fraunhofer UMSICHT Science Prize, recognizing his contributions to clean solar technologies. He was invited to give a talk at the award ceremony at Fraunhofer UMSICHT (Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT) (Link)
Our team won 1st place in the Public Choice Award at the Helmholtz Best Scientific Image 2023. The winning image showcases the SEM of our newly developed materials for radiative cooling. (Link)
Gan Huang was selected as one of the 35 Innovators Under 35 Europe by MIT Technology Review, recognizing his pioneering work in hybrid solar technologies