Enhancing PV/T Thermal Efficiency via Passive Air-Gap Cooling With Stagnant Water Heat Sink

Abstract

High operating temperatures significantly reduce the efficiency and lifespan of photovoltaic (PV) panels, necessitating innovative cooling solutions. This study investigates a novel passive cooling technique for photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems, integrating moving air through a gap between the PV panel and a stagnant water heat sink. The goal is to enhance thermal management and energy output while minimizing reliance on active cooling mechanisms. Two configurations are compared: a standard PV panel (reference) and an optimized PV/T system with the proposed air-gap cooling design. Key findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimized system, achieving a maximum air temperature difference of 22.84 K between inlet and outlet, an average thermal power output of 135.68 W, and a 4.15% increase in electrical power output. The thermal efficiency reached 30.05%, marking an 84.90% improvement over the reference setup. These results highlight the system's ability to maintain lower operational temperatures, thereby boosting both electrical and thermal performance. The innovative aspect of this study lies in its unique passive cooling approach, which combines air movement and stagnant water without requiring external energy input. This addresses a critical gap in PV/T literature by offering a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution for hot climates. The study provides valuable insights for optimizing solar energy systems, contributing to sustainable and efficient renewable energy technologies.