Quantifying the performance advantage of using passive solar air heater with chimney for photovoltaic module cooling

Abstract

Summary The foreseeable growth of photovoltaic (PV) systems highlights the prominence of improving its efficiency. The performance of PV module deteriorates as a major part of irradiance is converted to heat. Amongst several PV thermal management techniques, passive air cooling is gaining importance due to its self‐sustained nature. In the present experimental study, the performance of conventional solar air heater is enhanced by incorporating chimney. Further, by placing the PV module in the airflow path, its performance is improved compared to an identical module kept open to ambient. During testing, a maximum system efficiency of 35% was observed as air heater contributes to the maximum thermal efficiency of 25%. Further, due to better airflow over the PV module rear surface, a 13% reduction in surface temperature was observed compared to the outer module, which gave a 6% rise in power output. In such a combi system, the working of both PV and air heater complements the advantage to each other. Hence, the total efficiency of the air heater and PV module as two separate entities is always less than the system efficiency of the combi system.

Research on the Passive Cooling System of Solar Photovoltaic Panel Based on Hybrid Solar Chimney and Ventilator

“…Zheng et al [33] designed a system aimed at reducing the working temperature of solar photovoltaic panels, which effectively improved their operational efficiency. On the other hand, Chandrasekar et al [34] reported a technique that used passive thermal regulation in the form of fins combined with cotton wicks. This technique was employed to control the temperature of the photovoltaic (PV) module during operation.…”

“…Overall, there have been important advances in optimizing the cooling efficiency of solar photovoltaic panels. These include integrated systems converting solar to electrical energy [27], lapping fins [28], cotton core structures integrated with nanofluids [29], water-based hybrid PV/T systems [30], the use of slits [31], container-based systems [32], and passive thermal regulation techniques [33,34]. Each method has its own unique attributes, but all share the common goal of improving PV panel cooling efficiency and, thus, their operational efficacy.…”

Solar Chimney Applications in Buildings

“…The research of combined systems also shows diversification: the combination of multiple systems to maximize energy saving. Chandavar [63] explored the effectiveness of coupling the solar chimney and PV modules by field tests. As two self-sustained systems, the two components complement each other in their work, thus improving thermal efficiency.…”