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Recent advances in passive cooling methods for photovoltaic performance enhancement Ahmad, Emy Zairah; Sopian, Kamaruzzaman; Jarimi, Hasila; Fazlizan, Ahmad; Elbreki, Abdelnaser; Abd Hamid, Ag Sufiyan; Rostami, Shirin; Ibrahim, Adnan
International Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering (IJECE) Vol 11, No 1: February 2021
Publisher : Institute of Advanced Engineering and Science

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.11591/ijece.v11i1.pp146-154

Abstract

The electrical output performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules are sensitive to temperature variations and the intensity of solar irradiance under prolonged exposure. Only 20% of solar irradiance is converted into useful electricity, and the remaining are dissipated as heat which in turns increases the module operating temperature. The increase in module operating temperature has an adverse impact on the open-circuit voltage (Voc), which results in the power conversion efficiency reduction and irreversible cell degradation rate. Hence, proper cooling methods are essential to maintain the module operating temperature within the standard test conditions (STC). This paper presents an overview of passive cooling methods for its feasibility and economic viability in comparison with active cooling. Three different passive cooling approaches are considered, namely phase change material (PCM), fin heat sink, and radiative cooling covering the discussions on the achieved cooling efficiency. The understanding of the above-mentioned state-of-the-art cooling technologies is vital for further modifications of existing PV modules to improve the efficiency of electrical output.
Recent advances in passive cooling methods for photovoltaic performance enhancement Ahmad, Emy Zairah; Sopian, Kamaruzzaman; Jarimi, Hasila; Fazlizan, Ahmad; Elbreki, Abdelnaser; Abd Hamid, Ag Sufiyan; Rostami, Shirin; Ibrahim, Adnan
International Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering (IJECE) Vol 11, No 1: February 2021
Publisher : Institute of Advanced Engineering and Science

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.11591/ijece.v11i1.pp146-154

Abstract

The electrical output performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules are sensitive to temperature variations and the intensity of solar irradiance under prolonged exposure. Only 20% of solar irradiance is converted into useful electricity, and the remaining are dissipated as heat which in turns increases the module operating temperature. The increase in module operating temperature has an adverse impact on the open-circuit voltage (Voc), which results in the power conversion efficiency reduction and irreversible cell degradation rate. Hence, proper cooling methods are essential to maintain the module operating temperature within the standard test conditions (STC). This paper presents an overview of passive cooling methods for its feasibility and economic viability in comparison with active cooling. Three different passive cooling approaches are considered, namely phase change material (PCM), fin heat sink, and radiative cooling covering the discussions on the achieved cooling efficiency. The understanding of the above-mentioned state-of-the-art cooling technologies is vital for further modifications of existing PV modules to improve the efficiency of electrical output.
Superior thermal dissipation through natural convection in a passive cooling system using multidirectional tapered fin heat sinks (MTFHS) Razali, Siti Nuraisyah; Ibrahim, Adnan; Fazlizan, Ahmad; Al-Aasam, Anwer B.; Rahmat, Muhammad Aqil Afham; Ishak, Muhammad Amir Aziat
International Journal of Renewable Energy Development Vol 14, No 3 (2025): May 2025
Publisher : Center of Biomass & Renewable Energy (CBIORE)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61435/ijred.2025.60742

Abstract

The increasing prominence of photovoltaic modules as a cornerstone of sustainable energy systems is well-established.  Nevertheless, the deleterious impact of thermal dissipation, often resulting in efficiency losses of 10-15%, remains a significant challenge.  Many researches were exploring new cooling techniques to improve the efficiency of solar panels.  One promising approach is the Multidirectional Tapered Fin Heat Sink (MTFHS).  This innovative design can capture wind from multiple directions, making it more effective outdoors.  This study aims to investigate the MTFHS for photovoltaic module cooling. A comprehensive numerical model was developed using COMSOL software simulations to investigate the thermal behavior of photovoltaic modules equipped with multidirectional tapered fins.  The model was employed to simulate heat transfer under various solar irradiance levels from 400 W/m2 to 1000 W/m2 while maintaining a constant 30 ℃ ambient temperature and 1 m/s wind speed to isolate the impact of solar radiation.  Additionally, the direction of incoming airflow was systematically varied from 0° to 90° in 18° increments to analyze its influence.  The model considered key multidirectional tapered fin design parameters like fin spacing, number of fins, and fin height.  Real-world testing further validated the model's predictions.  The findings demonstrate that multidirectional tapered fins significantly reduce PV module temperature, achieving a remarkable 8.61% reduction compared to the bare and conventional rectangular fins.  The maximum temperature reached with MTFHS was 56.73 ℃.  Furthermore, multidirectional tapered fins consistently outperformed other configurations across various wind orientations, achieving temperature reductions of over 10 %.  These findings highlight the exceptional effectiveness of multidirectional tapered fins in outdoor environments, especially where wind direction is unpredictable.  A correlation analysis revealed excellent agreement (93-96 %) between model and experimental results, further validating the efficacy of the multidirectional tapered fin design.