Photovoltaic Thermal Research Articles

Comparative numerical study of the energy performance of two different configurations of a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal air collector

Solar energy is a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. When solar energy is converted into electricity by photovoltaic (PV) solar modules, the heat generated increases the temperature of the PV solar cells and, as a result, reduces their electrical efficiency. Several techniques are used to cool PV solar cells in order to reduce their operating temperature. One technique is the use of hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PVT) solar collectors, which simultaneously produce electricity and useful heat. In the airflow channel, the heat and mass transfer equations and those derived from the energy balance on the solid layers of the collector were discretized using the finite difference method with an implicit alternating directions (ADI) scheme. All the algebraic equations obtained after discretization were solved using the Thomas algorithm. The aim is to make a numerical comparison of the energy performance of the Verre-PV-Tedlar and Verre-PV-Verre flat-plate air PVT hybrid solar collectors in the climatic conditions of Lomé, Togo. Under the same operating conditions, the average electrical efficiencies of the Verre-PV-Verre and Verre-PV-Tedlar flat-plate air PVT hybrid collectors are 15.34% and 13.85% respectively. There is a 1.49% improvement in electrical efficiency for a Verre-PV-Verre air-source PVT hybrid collector compared with a Verre-PV-Tedlar PVT hybrid collector. The Verre-PV-Verre flat plate PVT air hybrid collector has an average daily electrical energy gain of 0.564 kWh and a thermal energy gain of 0.839 kWh, while the Verre-PV-Tedlar flat plate PVT air hybrid collector has an average daily electrical energy gain of 0.548 kWh and a thermal energy gain of 1.403 kWh.

A novel integrated solar-driven system with Ag@SiO2 nanofluid filters for generating hydrogen using seawater: Parametric assessment and optimization

Both renewable energy and fresh water inputs are required to develop sustainable green hydrogen. However, there is still a lack of an integrated system generating hydrogen cleanly. Therefore, this study aims to develop a full spectrum solar energy-driven system to co-generate fresh water and hydrogen. The seawater desalination and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis are introduced into a Ag@SiO2 nanofluid-filtered photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system. The desalinated seawater can be directly used for the electrolysis, realizing the self-supply of water for the hydrogen production process. A comprehensive examination is performed via modelling the integrated system to assess the influences of mass flow rates and nanofluid parameters on system function. Results reveal that the system performance is more sensitive to the mass flow rate of nanofluid than that of coolant, and concentrated nanofluids can easily affect system performance by adjusting their depth. Furthermore, mass flow rates and nanofluid parameters are optimized using a genetic algorithm with multiple-objectives. It was determined that the direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) unit is capable of producing sufficient water for the electrolysis process. The optimal system attains a hydrogen production rate of 1.95 × 10−5 kg/s, a specific thermal energy consumption of 310.18 kWh/m3, and a system efficiency of 22.39%.

Unveiling Potential: Hybrid Nanofluid-Driven Strategies for Maximizing Electrical Efficiency in Photovoltaic Thermal Systems with Trapezoidal Flow Channel for Coolant Purposes

In this article, a photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) system is optimized using hybrid nanofluids composed of copper and aluminum oxide, with water as the base fluid for cooling applications. The PV/T system features a simple configuration, with mono-crystalline silicon above the flow channel, copper functioning as the absorber, and a trapezoidal-shaped flow channel. The inlet height of the flow channel is fixed, while the outlet height is variable, defining an aspect ratio that ranges from 0.4 to 1. Numerical modeling is carried out using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0 through the finite element method, applying the two-dimensional incompressible Navier-Stokes and energy equations. The study focuses on analyzing cell temperature and electrical efficiency using both qualitative and quantitative approaches by varying the Reynolds number, aspect ratio, inlet temperature, and volume fraction of the hybrid nanofluids.Key findings: The results demonstrated a significant 37% reduction in cell temperature as the Reynolds number increased from 100 to 400, and a 1.8% reduction when the aspect ratio was minimized to 0.4. Additionally, cell efficiency improved by 8.4% and 2.1% as the Reynolds number increased from 100 to 1000 and the volume fraction from 0.01 to 0.1, respectively. These findings provide effective strategies for enhancing the electrical efficiency of PV/T systems. "The study suggests optimizing the cell efficiency of PV/T systems through a new configuration of the flow channel, focusing on adjusting the outlet height and the concentration of nanoparticles in the base fluid.

Sustainability index and a bibliometric of photovoltaic thermal with rectangular channel

The main challenge associated with solar panels is the need to reduce excessive heat and optimize efficiency to achieve stable conditions. Therefore, a combination of collector and cooling technologies, such as Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) Technology, is needed to address this problem. This research used water-based rectangular channel to cool the PVT through the Ansys simulation method. A total of nine variations of mass flow rates, which ranged from 0.001 to 0.009 kg/s and six solar intensities between 500 W/m2 and 1000 W/m2 were used to achieve the optimal performance. An energetic analytical method with average Sustainability Index (SI) of 0.001-0.009 kg/s and 1.186 at 1000 W/m2 intensity were incorporated. Furthermore, the maximum average Waste Exergy Rasio (WER) value of 0.854 at a 500 W/m2 intensity was used to determine the flow rate. The highest average Exergetic Ecological Index (EcEI) value recorded was -0.687 at a 1000 W/m2 radiation intensity, while the highest average Improvement Potential (IP) value was 421.145 W. The results showed that the simulation serve as a valuable point of reference in the design and advancement of water-based rectangular channel within future PVT technology.

Synergistic solar electricity-water generation through an integration of semitransparent solar cells and multistage interfacial desalination

Energy shortage and freshwater scarcity are critical challenges for the sustainable development of the society. The photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) hybrid system offers a promising strategy by harnessing solar energy for electricity and water cogeneration. However, existing systems suffer from relatively low efficiency due to incomplete solar spectrum utilization. To address this, we propose a novel PVT integrated system that combines semi-transparent solar cells and multistage interfacial stills to maximize solar spectrum utilization, allowing for efficient electricity and freshwater co-production. Experimental results demonstrate a record-high solar-to-vapor efficiency of 210% with a production rate of 3.17 L m-2 h-1 under one-sun, while maintaining an uncompromised electrical efficiency of 19.57%. Furthermore, we employ a verified theoretical framework to provide optimized strategies for concurrent enhancement of electricity-water production, by improving internal heat and mass transfer and effectively reducing the thickness of the interstage air gap. Moreover, we introduce a non-contact model for system structure optimization proposed to match the high transmittance of solar cells. This work realizes full solar spectrum utilization to cogenerate electricity and freshwater, offering optimized strategies from the thermal perspective for future research.

A 3D Model of a Photovoltaic Thermal Panel with the Heat Transfer Fluid Tube Embedded in a Layer of Phase Change Material and Metal Foam

A 3D Model of a Photovoltaic Thermal Panel with the Heat Transfer Fluid Tube Embedded in a Layer of Phase Change Material and Metal Foam

Energy and exergy analysis of a newly designed photovoltaic thermal system featuring ribs, petal array, and coiled twisted tapes: Experimental analysis

Photovoltaic systems suffer from electrical efficiency loss due to increases in surface temperature. To tackle this problem, Photovoltaic Thermal, consisting of photovoltaic and tube configurations attached to its back, is suggested. This study attempts to develop a new collector design in photovoltaic thermal systems. The new design features ribs and petal arrays on its inner and outer surfaces and a coiled twisted tape positioned inside it. The study also uses silicon carbide enhanced nanofluid (0.3 % and 6 % volume concentration) and phased changing material (1 % volume concentration) to boost the thermal efficiency further. Using an indoor solar simulator, the study investigates the effects of mass flow rate in the range of (0.1–0.85) kg/s, solar irradiances of (400–1000) W/m2, and coolant types of (water, 0.3 % and 0.6 % SiC enhanced nanofluid, water and nanophase changing materials, and 0.3 % and 0.6 % SiC enhanced nanofluid and nanophase changing materials). Besides revealing the relationship between all the parameters studied, the results report a maximum electrical energy efficiency of 11.2 %, thermal energy efficiency of 86.2 %, and total exergy efficiency of 15.3 %. The system reached optimal power production of 25.99 W using a photovoltaic module with a maximum power rate of 30 W.

Evaluating the energy and economic performance of hybrid photovoltaic thermal system integrated with multiwalled carbon nanotubes enhanced phase change material

Photovoltaic thermal (PVT) systems represent an advanced evolution of traditional photovoltaic (PV) modules designed to generate electrical and thermal energy simultaneously. However, achieving optimal and commercially viable performance from these systems remains challenging. To overcome this issue, in this research, multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) enhanced phase change materials (PCMs) integrated with PVT system to enhance electrical and thermal performance has been studied. An experimental investigation with three different configurations, PVT, PCM integrated PVT (PVTPCM), and MWCNT enhanced PCM integrated PVT (PVTNePCM) systems, was carried out under varying solar radiations and a water flow rate of 0.013–0.016 kg/s compared to conventional PV system. A two-step technique was employed to formulate the nanocomposites, and the energy performance of both PV and PVT systems assessed experimentally. The performance of PVTPCM and PVTNePCM systems was evaluated using the TRNSYS simulation technique. The formulated nanocomposite exhibited a 71.43% enhancement in thermal conductivity, a significant reduction in transmittance up to 92% and remained chemically and thermally stable. Integration of NePCM in the PVT system resulted in a notable decrease in panel temperature and a 25.03% increase in electrical efficiency compared to the conventional PV system. The highest performance ratio and overall efficiency for PVTNePCM were 0.55 and 81.62%, respectively, at a flow rate of 0.013 kg/s. The energy payback periods of PVTNePCM, PVTPCM, and PVT setup were 4.7, 4.8 and 5.6 years, respectively. Additionally, a significant improvement in thermal efficiency were observed for PVTPCM and PVTNePCM systems compared to water-based PVT systems, due to the energy stored in the thermal energy storage material.

Performance analysis of solar-assisted ground source heat pump in severe cold regions

ABSTRACT Long-term operation of a ground source heat pump (GSHP) in severe cold regions leads to a gradual decrease in subsurface soil temperature, affecting system performance. This paper proposes a solar assisted ground source heat pump (SAGSHP) system consisting of solar photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) and GSHP. Through TRNSYS software, the system was analyzed for 10 years of dynamic simulation in a severe cold region. The results are listed below: (1) The SAGSHP system is capable of effectively lessening the maximal temperature of photovoltaic (PV) modules in Changchun, Shenyang, and Harbin, China, by 21.73%, 13.67%, and 19.10%, respectively. The power generation efficiency of PV modules in these three locations can be maintained at about 22% year-round. (2) After ten years of operation, the coefficients of performance (COP) of the heat pumps have increased by 5.70%, 6.80%, and 5.01%, respectively, relative to the first year, showing good stability. (3) The soil temperatures at all three locations were stabilized during the ten years of operation. This study provides a theoretical basis for devising and installing SAGSHP in severe cold regions.

Realization of a tracker for a parabolic cylindrical optical concentrator (application on a photovoltaic_thermal window

To produce more electrical energy with the same PV module, the output power of the PV module can be increased by increasing the solar radiation incident on the PV module, because the amount of electricity obtained from PV systems is directly proportional to the intensity of solar radiation projected onto the surface of the solar module. Implementing a solar concentration system can be a good solution to increase the efficiency of the PV module. This study examines the effectiveness of using a movable parabolic reflector in a window containing a photovoltaic array with a heat exchanger containing water circulating in a pipeline, to obtain a photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) module. The results demonstrate that using a movable parabolic reflector with a cooling system to absorb excess heat in a building window could increase and improve the performance of the photovoltaic array and enable optimal use of solar panels with more energy produced.

A comparative analysis of intelligent energy modelling approaches for a grid-tied PVT system application

Renewable energy resources are a long-term answer to the current chronic energy dilemma. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are the most often used form of a practical solution for power supply and energy management in buildings. A PV-thermal (PVT) system is essential to lowering the demand for grid energy by capturing electrical and thermal energy from sunlight, optimising energy usage and encouraging sustainable energy practices. The most significant difficulty faced by developing countries, such as South Africa, is a lack of power supply to meet demand while limiting grid overload. An alternative source of energy is a critical component. This research compares two intelligent energy modelling methodologies: optimal control scheme-based open loop and model predictive control (MPC) in a PVT application. The primary goal of the modelling is to limit the electricity required from the grid while stressing the system’s energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The open loop approach uses mathematical optimisation techniques to establish the best control strategy for the PVT system. The ideal set-points for various system parameters are found by presenting the problem as an optimisation task to reduce grid power usage. The optimal control technique delivers a global optimisation solution based on the system dynamics and constraints. The MPC technique employs a predictive control technique of the PVT system to create optimal control actions in a receding horizon manner. The MPC algorithm anticipates future system behaviour and generates control actions that minimise grid power drawn by iteratively solving an optimisation problem at each time step. This robust online control scheme enables real-time modifications and responses to system disruptions that effectively and dynamically coordinate system behaviour.

Prediction of Heat Transfer in a Hybrid Solar–Thermal–Photovoltaic Heat Exchanger Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Solar energy is one of the main renewable energy resources due to its abundance. It can be used for two purposes, thermal or photovoltaic applications. However, when the resource obtained is mixed, it is called photovoltaic thermal hybrid, where the solar panels generate electricity and are provided with a heat exchanger to absorb energy through a water flow. This is one of the techniques used by the scientific community to reduce the excess temperature generated by solar radiation in the cells, improving the electrical efficiency of photovoltaic systems and obtaining fluid with higher temperature. In this work, the thermal behavior of a heat exchanger equipped with fins in its interior to increase the thermal efficiency of the system was analyzed using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics). The results showed that the average fluid outlet temperature was 75.31 °C, considering an incident irradiance of 1067 W/m2 and a fluid inlet temperature of 27 °C. The operating conditions were obtained from published experimental studies, achieving 97.7% similarity between the two. This was due to the boundary conditions of the heat flux (1067 W/m2) impinging directly on the coupled cells and the heat exchanger in a working area of 0.22 m2.

Effect of the use of metal–oxide and boron-based nanoparticles on the performance in a photovoltaic thermal module (PV/T): Experimental study

Renewable energy sources are constantly on the agenda because the fossil fuels used are limited and the need for energy is constantly increasing. Among these resources, solar energy stands out because it is clean and endless energy. Nowadays, heat energy and electrical energy production from solar energy are quite common. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels can convert a limited portion of the solar energy falling on them into electrical energy. In PV panels, heat energy that cannot be converted into electricity is discharged back to the external environment. Photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) panels are used to remove this heat from the system and convert it into useful energy. Many cooling techniques are applied to reduce the surface temperature of PV/T panels and increase their electrical efficiency. One of these techniques is liquid-cooled PV/T panels. In some of the studies, forced circulation (using a pump) and in others natural circulation (thermosiphon effect) were applied. In this study, a natural circulation indirect heated PV/T system was designed. Al2O3, ZnO, and BN nanoparticle concentrations were added to the cooling water to increase heat transfer within the PV/T panel. According to the experimental results, using nanofluid in the PV/T panel increased the thermal and total efficiency. Total efficiencies of ZnO, BN, and Al2O3 were obtained as 52.8 %, 47.86 %, and 43.49 %, respectively, at 0.03 concentration. The highest exergy efficiency and sustainability index were determined as 17.155 % and 1.207, respectively, at 0.03 concentration of ZnO nanofluid.

Energy performance and wind exposure of windward, lateral, and leeward high-rise photovoltaic facades

The growing demand for sustainable energy solutions leads to the integration of photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) modules into building facades. This study evaluates and compares the energy potential, wind load, and environmental benefits of PV/T modules installed on different facades of high-rise buildings. Using advanced computational techniques, including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the wind interaction with PV/T modules on windward, lateral, and leeward facades is modeled and analyzed. Each computational process requires over two weeks to complete due to the complexity of the simulations. The results demonstrate that the leeward facade is more effective for electricity generation, while the windward and sideward facades perform better for thermal energy storage. Maximum energy outputs of 217 kW for thermal energy and 73 kW for electrical energy are recorded, depending on wind conditions. Additionally, energetic and exergetic efficiencies reach 55.2 % and 17.7 %, respectively. The study also finds that the leeward facade has the greatest impact on reducing CO2 emissions. These findings provide valuable insights into designing optimal PV/T facades for high-rise structures, expanding the range of structural designs and offering opportunities for implementing mitigation measures to enhance system durability and efficiency. The novelty of this research lies in the detailed comparative analysis of PV/T performance across multiple facades, offering a practical framework for future sustainable building designs.

Performance investigation on PVT collector with cerium oxide nano fluids

The constant temperature rise on the solar panel surface causes a deterioration of electrical power generation. This article is provided with the performance of photovoltaic thermal (PVT) collector through cerium oxide with water as a base fluid. A small percentage of incoming radiation is transformed into electricity and rest of them is wasted as hot energy, the panel surface temperature will confine the performance of PV module. The research's objectives were to develop and construct a photovoltaic/thermal collector and evaluate its thermal and electrical energy as an output. The experimental investigation of PVT collector with two different concentration of cerium oxide 0.5 and 1.0 LPM (litres per minute). As per the investigations on the PVT collector results were obtained as electrical performance of collector was attained about 18.56 %, 19.12 % for the flow rate of 0.5 and 1.0 LPM. Similarly, thermal performance was achieved 48.38 %, 54.03 % for the flow rate of 0.5 and 1.0 LPM. Thermal conductivity of cerium oxide nano fluid was much better than the air and water. It was observed that employing a nano fluid to the receiver might increase the efficiency around 5–10 %, compared to utilising water as a base fluid, water can only generate 3–7 %. As a cooling medium, air has a relatively low production capacity between 2 and 3 %.

Experimental Analysis and CFD Simulation of Photovoltaic/Thermal System with Nanofluids for Sustainable Energy Solution

The integration of photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems with nanofluids presents a promising avenue for enhancing sustainable energy solution. This study investigates the performance of such systems through experimental analysis and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Nanofluids, engineered colloidal suspensions of nanoparticles in base fluids, are employed to enhance heat transfer within the PV/T system. The experimental setup involves measuring electrical output, thermal efficiency, and overall system performance under varying conditions. Additionally, CFD simulations are conducted to model fluid flow and heat transfer dynamics within the PV/T collector integrated with nanofluids. The results from both experimental and simulation studies provide insights into the synergitic effects of nanofluids on enhancing energy conversion efficiency and thermal management of the PV/T system. The research contributes to the development of sustainable energy solutions by demonstrating the potential of nanofluid-enhanced PV/T systems in improving energy conversion efficiency and thermal management for various environmental conditions.

CURRENT TRENDS IN PHOTOVOLTAIC THERMAL (PVT) SYSTEMS: A REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGIES AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

This systematic review explores advancements and challenges in photovoltaic thermal (PVT) systems, focusing on efficiency improvements, cooling mechanisms, material innovations, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, and cost and environmental considerations. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 45 articles were analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of current trends and future directions in PVT technology. Findings reveal that cooling mechanisms, particularly liquid-based and nanofluid-based systems, are essential for maintaining high PVT efficiency under diverse environmental conditions. Material advancements, including phase change materials (PCMs) and nanotechnology, have enhanced thermal management and energy storage capabilities, yet their high costs and environmental impacts remain significant barriers to broader adoption. IoT and smart grid integration have transformed PVT system functionality by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and energy flow adjustments within connected energy networks. However, persistent challenges—including high initial investment costs, environmental concerns related to materials, and the need for adaptable designs—highlight areas for future research. Advancements in adaptive materials, sustainable cooling solutions, and digital automation are essential for developing cost-effective, resilient PVT systems that contribute to global renewable energy goals. This review provides a foundation for future research to address the identified challenges and maximize the potential of PVT systems in sustainable energy production.

Energy and exergy assessment of a photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) system cooled by single and hybrid nanofluids

Photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) concept is a novel methodology to lower the PV module temperature and consecutively produce thermal and electrical energies. This study assesses the thermal and electrical advancements of a PVT system using iron oxide (Fe2O3) single nanofluid and titanium oxide-iron oxide (TiO2-Fe2O3) hybrid nanofluid at 0.2 % and 0.3 % concentrations. The PVT energy and exergy efficiencies were presented and analyzed concerning the effect of proposed single and hybrid nanofluids. Study findings disclosed that dispersing 0.3% of TiO2- Fe2O3 nanocomposites into water has enhanced the nanofluid thermal conductivity, improving the Nusselt number by 90.64 %, while Fe2O3 nanoparticles achieved 31.75 %. Furthermore, employing TiO2- Fe2O3-based nanofluid at 0.3 % has enhanced the PVT electrical efficiency by 13 % and, thermal efficiency by 44 % compared to Fe2O3-based nanofluid, which exhibited 12 %, and 33 %, respectively. Besides, the PVT electrical exergy efficiency was augmented by about 13 % using TiO2-Fe2O3-based hybrid nanofluid, against 11 % using Fe2O3 nanofluid. Reversely, the pressure drop was increased by a maximum of 62.9% when TiO2- Fe2O3 was applied due to the raised nanofluid density compared to the reference base fluid. Conclusively, hybrid nanofluid has a superior influence on the PVT performance than single nanofluids. However, further investigations are required to explore cost-effective hybrid nanofluids with a low pressure drop.

Utilizing novel industrialized heat exchanger plate in air-based photovoltaic/thermal collectors to enhance thermal and electrical efficiency

This study aims to design a highly efficient and applicable air-based photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) collector that maximizes both electrical and thermal energy efficiencies. An innovative industrialization-ready configuration of the air-based PVT system is proposed, utilizing an industrialized heat exchanger (GRIPMetal or GM) as the absorber plate for the PVT air channel. The heat exchanger consists of spikes and cavities to enhance the heat transfer coefficient in the air channel. The proposed heat exchanger plate minimally affects the dimensions and weight of the PVT collector. A numerical model, validated against experimental results, is used to ensure the accuracy of the simulation. The study is followed by a parametric study that investigates the geometric effects of the heat exchanger and air channel, as well as the airflow rate, on the overall performance of the PVT system. It is observed that the utilization of GM plates significantly reduces the average PV panel temperature (with a maximum of 28 ℃ reduction) and enhances the convective heat transfer coefficient in the air channel, the electrical and thermal efficiencies by approximately 164%, 16.1%, and 50%, respectively, when compared to a flat plate PVT collector. The results demonstrate that the proposed PVT collector effectively compensates for the pressure drops and excess fan power consumption at low Reynolds numbers due to the GM heat exchanger, resulting in higher overall system efficiency. The optimal configuration for the proposed PVT system is achieved by employing a low airflow rate, a narrow air channel, and GM spikes of the largest size available.

Maximizing thermal management of photovoltaic-thermal systems with proper configuration of porous fins and phase change materials

Effective thermal management is crucial to enhance the performance and longevity of photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) systems. Phase change materials (PCMs) offer a promising solution for absorbing excess heat from PV modules; however, their poor thermal conductivity limits their effectiveness. This work explores the incorporation of porous fins within PCMs to improve heat absorption and thermal regulation in PVT systems. A detailed mathematical model is developed to analyze the effects of varying fin porosity (0.85 to 0.95), fin thickness (7 to 21 mm), fin height (7 to 21 mm), and fin inclination (-15° to 30°) on PCM melting and PVT cooling performance. Results show that optimally configured porous fins significantly enhance PCM melting rates and heat extraction from PV cells. Incorporating optimal fins reduces peak PV temperatures by up to 5°C compared to PCM alone at irradiation rate of 1000 W/m2. Meanwhile, reducing the fin thickness from 21 to 7 mm accelerates the overall PCM melting rate by 14%. The cooling performance also shows a nonlinear increase with fin tilt angle, with maximum enhancement occurring at 15° downward tilt for the studied configuration. The optimized fin-enhanced PVT design achieves 3.1% higher electrical efficiency and 15% increase in thermal efficiency compared to conventional PCM-PVT systems without fins. Findings provide design guidance to harness porous fins for maximized PCM-based cooling of PVT systems.