Passive Cooling Module to Improve the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Performance

Abstract

Solar energy is a renewable clean energy. Photovoltaic (PV) cells or solar panels use the sun light as the main source to produce electricity. However, the operating temperature has a significant impact on the PV conversion process and its performance. PV cell technology performance is sensitive to the operating temperature. Increasing cell temperature causes a significant reduction in the output voltage which in turn leads to reducing electrical efficiency. In other words, when the temperature rises, the output current rises exponentially which leads to output voltage to fall. Therefore, PV efficiency decreases. This paper aims to develop a new PV panel passive cooling system that enhances the efficiency of the panel and improves its performance. The design is based on air channels and air chimneys. Overall, cooled solar panels are efficient and cost-effective as their performance is better and their efficiency is higher than the non-cooled solar panels. Our project is designed to serve UAE’s 2021 vision (increased dependence on clean energy and green development), reduce pollution in the environment, and save energy for the next generations. The goal of this research is to lower the temperature of the PV panel., therefore, enhancing the efficiency as well as improving the performance by cooling the PV panel. So, It has the potential to alleviate the problem of overheating solar panels.