A new passive PV heatsink design to reduce efficiency losses: A computational and experimental evaluation

Abstract

The efficiency of photovoltaic systems is decreased when its operating temperature increases, which can affect the performance in arid climatic conditions. In this work, a new passive cooling system for photovoltaic panels is presented, with the aim of reducing its operational temperature and preventing a reduction in its electrical efficiency in unfavorable environments. With this aim, a series of 3D models of heatsinks were designed. The systems were evaluated through simulating normal operational conditions using CFD software. Prototypes of the models with the best performance regarding level and distribution of temperature were built for experimental evaluation. The use of a segmented aluminum sheet was proposed; allowing a better airflow, and therefore, improved cooling under high irradiance conditions. Numerical simulation results showed improved in temperature distribution and a reduction of up to 9.4 °C in the most effective heatsinks. Experimental results were in close agreement, achieving a reduction of around 10 °C during peak irradiance. Results of this work support the use of the integration of PV and passive cooling systems to reduce efficiency losses under real operating conditions, where there is a multidirectional nature of airflow, which may not be favorable for a conventional heatsink with a continuous channel design.