DESIGN ANALYSIS OF WATER-COOLED SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM

Abstract

Photovoltaic cells otherwise known as solar panel, converts irradiance into electrical energy. During this process of conversion, the temperature of the PVC increased as it absorbs solar irradiance lead to a reduction in its output power. This problem affects the performance of the PVC especially in the hotter regions of the world. In this research, a water cooling system was designed to the PV panel in order to reduce its temperature. The objective of this research is to carryout design analysis of the system for possible fabrication and performance evaluation. The design analysis results shows an insulator thickness of 5.5 mm and a theoretical water temperature of 62.3oC was attained, which implies a 5.2oC reduction in PVC temperature.