Improving the efficiency of solar photovoltaics by means of geothermal cooling: A year-long test campaign

D. Lopez-Pascual, I. Valiente-Blanco, M. Fernandez-Munoz and E. Diez-Jimenez

Renewable Energy, 2024, vol. 227, issue C

Abstract: Heating up of photovoltaic modules during operation results in a significant power output reduction. This effect is especially relevant in regions with the highest photovoltaic potential, where irradiance and ambient temperature are particularly high. In this paper, a novel low enthalpy geothermal cooling system that improves the efficiency of a commercial solar module is described and experimentally validated. Two heat exchangers, one attached to the backside of the module, and another introduced inside a 15 m deep borehole, are connected in a closed circuit. A water-based coolant is pumped through the system, evacuating the excess heat from the module, and dissipating it underground in a clean and efficient manner, without additional water consumption after filling the system.

Keywords: Geothermal cooling; Photovoltaics; Efficiency improvement; Active cooling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:renene:v:227:y:2024:i:c:s0960148124006189

DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.120553

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