A hydronic closed-loop photovoltaic cooling system designed for hot and arid regions: Performance evaluation and degradation rate/lifetime analysis

Hazim Dirawi, Qiliang Wang, Mingke Hu, Yuehong Su and Saffa Riffat

Applied Energy, 2024, vol. 373, issue C, No S0306261924013825

Abstract: Photovoltaic (PV) power generation is an essential option for addressing the depletion and environmental repercussions of fossil fuels. However, the performance of PV panels is generally hindered by excessive operating temperatures, leading to decreased efficiency as well as accelerated degradation rates. To address this issue particularly for hot and arid climates, a closed-loop PV cooling system is proposed in this study for continuously regulating the temperature of PV panels throughout both day and night, thereby reducing temperature fluctuations, and enhancing overall efficiency while slowing degradation rates. A 3D transient mathematical model and a degradation rate model are established and verified via comparisons with the experimental results. On this basis, this study focuses on analysing the design of the closed-loop PV cooling system by investigating the effects of various parameters, including the water tank shape, the number of tubes and the water mass flow rate. The overall daily and annual performance and degradation rate of the PV panel in the system are also studied and analysed. The results show the proposed system is well-appropriate for dry and hot regions with significant diurnal temperature variations. On one hand, the PV efficiency and power output can be enhanced through cooling by closed-loop water circulation during the day. On the other hand, the temperature fluctuation of the PV panel during the day and night is effectively reduced, and the PV lifespan is substantially enhanced by up to 33% compared to conventional designs. This study offers valuable insights into the design and performance of closed-loop PV cooling systems and the optimal selection of parameters to improve overall efficiency.

Keywords: Photovoltaic; Closed-loop PV cooling; Temperature fluctuation; PV efficiency; Degradation rate; Lifetime (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.123999

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