Results of mathematical modelling of the cooling system for solar panels of a hybrid power plant based on solar and hydraulic energy

Abstract

It should be noted that theoretical and experimental studies in the field of semiconductors have shown good prospects for creating matrix and multilateral photoelectric converters (MPCs) with vertical p-n junctions. Such PV have undeniable advantages in the tasks of generating high output voltages and converting concentrated solar radiation. In addition, the implementation of such PVs in a multi-sensitive design makes it possible to reduce the consumption of semiconductor silicon by up to three to four times.But, in conditions of a dry, hot, continental and dusty climate, for example, in the republics of Central Asia, their heating is observed when the FP operates. This problem can be solved by using it in conjunction with microhydroelectric power plants or additional cooling. The hybrid system developed by the authors includes a solar power plant, a counter-rotor hydraulic unit with a reactive and active impeller, a cooling system and an automatic control system. The characteristics of this system were studied on the basis of mathematical modeling in the “Comsol multiphysics 6.1” software environment.In the simulation, the solar panel was cooled with air and water using electricity from a hydroelectric unit. According to the calculation results, the heating of the solar panel without forced convection at an outside air temperature of 400-450C was 1080C. Water was supplied through an aluminum cover installed behind the solar panel and which had channels. The solar panel temperature was 49.2°C and the water temperature was 48.2°C.When cooled by ambient air, the temperature of the solar panel was 67.7°C. The cooling system efficiency was 74% when comparing the energy expended to cool a 2m2 solar panel and the power added when cooling the panel.