Investigation of Hybrid Photovoltaic /Thermal Solar System Performance Under Iraq's Climate Conditions

Abstract

The research investigates the use of fins fastened to a solar panel's rear surface for passive cooling. The research compared solar modules with air cooling against modules with connected fins acting as a heat sink. The comparison was based on the former. The research studies the cooling of modules with fins using two different types of air: ventilation air and still air. By comparing the heat transmission by photovoltaic panels with and without fins, the research sought to analyses the effects of the environment and solar radiation on the performance of solar cells. The inquiry was done hypothetically. According to the findings, using fins for cooling reduced cell temperature and improved electrical and thermal efficiency. The estimated performance values of the PVT solar cell obtained by using the COMSOL program and the experimental measurements carried out during the daytime were reasonably in accord. The biggest reduction in cell temperature is (3.7ºC at noon), while the greatest increases in electrical and thermal efficiency are (16.54% and 58.3%, respectively). There is good agreement between experimental and numerical results.