Efficiency Enhancement of PV panels with Passive Latent Energy Storage Incorporation

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used technology which is implemented to meet the increasing demands of energy. These PV panels can be used for power generation at grid level or for mobile applications such as electric vehicles etc. Although the PV module efficiency and life is reduced due to the overheating of photovoltaic (PV) panels resulting in low power and electrical output. This study discusses both passive and active cooling technologies for thermal management of PV panels. The study further elucidates on use of PCM as passive cooling approach for PV thermal management. Paraffin wax melting in the temperature range of 50°C to 56°C, is utilized for the experimentation. It is observed that peak temperature reduction of around 5°C is observed with increase in the maximum power output by up to four percent. The uniqueness of using PCM is that no auxiliary power is required for this improvement in the power output.