PCM-based hybrid thermal management system for photovoltaic modules: A comparative analysis

Abstract Temperature regulation of photovoltaic (PV) modules increases their performance. Among various cooling techniques, phase change materials (PCMs) represent an effective thermal management route, thanks to their large latent heat at constant temperatures. Radiative cooling (RC) is also recently explored as a passive option for PV temperature regulation. In this paper, a heat sink (HS), phase change materials, and radiative cooling are integrated with photovoltaic modules to get low and uniform temperature distribution along the PV module and its improved performance. Eight different combinations are considered for the proposed system, including HS, PCM, and RC and their various combinations. The PCM is selected according to the environmental conditions of a specific location. A comprehensive 2-D model is developed and analyzed in COMSOL-Multiphysics software by solving the governing equations using the finite element method. The performance analysis is carried out for the climatic conditions of the Atacama Desert, having high solar radiation and ambient temperature. The effects of PCM height, ambient temperature, wind velocity, and solar radiation on the performance of the proposed system are studied. The performance of eight different configurations is also compared. The maximum reduction in PV temperature, maximum PV power and a minimum drop in PV conversion efficiency are observed to be 22 K, 152 W and 14% using a combined heat sink and radiative cooling systems, among all other configurations. The findings of this study can be used to select the best PV cooling method among different configurations.