Efficiency of Photovoltaic Modules Using Different Cooling Methods: A Comparative Study

摘要

This paper presents an experimental investigation of the efficiency of a photovoltaic module using different cooling methods. The performance of the PV panels under different cooling techniques for the same operational conditions is explained. A special test rig was designed and installed in the Faculty of Engineering Technology, East Amman. All operating key variables such as solar radiation intensity, ambient and module temperatures using calibrated devices were measured and recorded as well as the electrical output. The present experiments results showed that the electrical efficiency of the tested PV panels is improved significantly when it was cooled. However, the best improvement obtained when a nanofluid (0.04% wt TiO₂/water) is used as a cooling medium, while the PV panel cooled by using Aluminum rectangular fins showed the lowest efficiency improvement. Such results including the comparative analysis (under local operating conditions prevailing in Jordan) are in agreement with literature and could be useful for researchers and developers of solar power generation.