Numerical investigation of increasing the efficiency of thermal photovoltaic system by changing the level of heat transfer distribution

Abstract

In photovoltaic systems, only a small fraction of solar radiation effectively reaches the module's surface and is converted into electrical energy. The unused solar radiation results in elevated cell temperature and reduced electrical efficiency. In the photovoltaic-thermal system, the circulation of fluids such as water or air around the panels allows for the utilization of otherwise wasted thermal energy, leading to increased electrical efficiency and overall system efficiency. The objective of this article is to examine the thermal efficiency of copper and aluminum oxides in photovoltaic systems when combined with nanofluid. The aim is to identify any changes in efficiency that may arise from this combination. This article presents a novel approach by employing a combination of aluminum oxide and copper nanofluids, along with a water mixture, to investigate the influence of key factors on the electrical, thermal, and overall efficiency of photovoltaic systems. These factors encompass incoming radiation levels on the panel surface, fluid inlet temperature in mountainous regions, and absorber temperature. The study aims to analyze and compare the thermal efficiency of copper and aluminum oxide in this particular context. In the present study, the finite volume method is used to solve the equations. According to the research findings, raising the initial temperature of the incoming fluid results in a proportional increase in the outlet temperature. However, it is important to note that the thermal efficiency remains constant regardless of changes in the initial fluid temperature. Furthermore, copper oxide exhibits superior thermal efficiency compared to aluminum oxide, and the use of nanofluids enhances the thermal efficiency of photovoltaic systems.

Keywords

• Photovoltaic systems
• Heat transfer
• Thermal efficiency
• Finite volume method