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Solar photovoltaic cooling and power enhancement systems: A review

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  • Utomo, Bayu
  • Darkwa, Jo
  • Du, Dengfeng
  • Worall, Mark

Abstract

The development of an efficient photovoltaic system could play a vital role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals and the global Net Zero emission target. However, the operation of photovoltaic is reliant on its operating temperatures, causing a substantial drop in the system's energy performance. Various photovoltaic cooling and power enhancement studies have been reviewed with the aim of offering insight into advancements in photovoltaic performance enhancement systems. However, they have yet to discuss both topics comprehensively in a review study. These fragmented studies may lead to a gap in knowledge and information for devising effective photovoltaic performance enhancement strategies. Therefore, this review is a thorough attempt to consolidate the recent advances in photovoltaic performance enhancement systems. The current advancements in cooling approaches were reviewed by classifying them into conductive, convective, and radiative cooling systems. The application of thermoelectric generators and phase change material was highlighted in photovoltaic power enhancement systems. The performance comparison showed that the cooling systems with nanofluid provided the most significant cooling effect, reducing the operating temperature up to 40.4 °C. Meanwhile, integrating phase change material underneath the thermoelectric generator performed the most significant energy enhancement by up to 1.67 %. Some key technical barriers and economic aspects were examined as guidance in advancing photovoltaic cooling and power enhancement systems. Limitations of the review were also outlined, and future prospects were concluded.

Suggested Citation

  • Utomo, Bayu & Darkwa, Jo & Du, Dengfeng & Worall, Mark, 2025. "Solar photovoltaic cooling and power enhancement systems: A review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 216(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:216:y:2025:i:c:s136403212500317x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2025.115644
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