Development of an active water-based cooling system for enhanced photovoltaic efficiency

Mohd Naufal Nathan, Nur Manisha (2024) Development of an active water-based cooling system for enhanced photovoltaic efficiency. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

This project focuses on developing an active water-based cooling system to enhance the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels by addressing heat-related performance losses. When PV panels operate at high temperatures, their energy output decreases, limiting overall performance. To tackle this issue, a water sprinkler system controlled by an ESP32 microcontroller was designed to automatically activate when the panel temperature exceeds 25°C. The system works by evenly distributing water over the panel surface, effectively reducing heat buildup. A series of tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of PV panels before and after implementing the cooling system under various sunlight conditions. The results demonstrated that the system increased maximum power (Pmax) by 13.7% and improved open-circuit voltage (Voc) by 4.5%. Additionally, the overall efficiency of the PV panels climbed by 10.4%, while the panel temperature dropped by up to 9.1°C during peak sunlight hours. This reduction in temperature not only boosts energy output but also extends the operational lifespan of the panels by minimizing thermal stress. The project highlights the potential for integrating this cooling solution into residential and commercial solar installations, contributing to more sustainable and efficient energy generation. The findings suggest that this cost-effective approach can significantly enhance the performance and reliability of solar power systems.

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