Thermal management of grid-tied PV system: A novel active and passive cooling design-based approach

The photovoltaic (PV) cells are highly sensitive to temperature variations. The linear variation of PV cells with operating temperature could lead to the loss of conversion efficiency and permanent damage of PV material. To address this critical issue, while improving the performance of solar photovoltaic system (SPVS) during the operating period, the deployment of a proper cooling system is a prime requisite in the design process. Considering this, two new and cost-effective cooling techniques are proposed in this study, which can improve efficiency and increase the life of the PV panel. The first technique is the active cooling design with water. The proposed design enhances the access to PV cells to maximize cooling. The second one is an improved passive cooling technique that uses fins mounted on the backside of PV module. This further reduces the temperature by increasing the heat dissipation. Additionally, a third PV module without any cooling system is deployed as a reference margin. The techniques have been experimentally evaluated and a recommendation is made in order to reduce the temperature variation across the PV panel.

Automated summary

The sensitivity of photovoltaic cells to temperature variations necessitates the implementation of proper cooling techniques to enhance efficiency and prolong lifespan. Two cost-effective cooling methods, active cooling design with water and improved passive cooling technique using fins, are proposed in this study. Experimental evaluation has shown their effectiveness in reducing temperature variations across PV panels.