Comparative assessment of PV/Trombe wall performance: Compound influence of paraffin wax and reflective mirrors

Abstract

Renewable energy, especially solar energy, is one of the more essential sources that provide part of the world's energy needs. Therefore, combining photovoltaic panels and a Trombe wall is one of the more comprehensive research topics. This system is called PVTWS.In this study, the performance of the PVTWS was investigated under Iraqi weather conditions by building an experimental model and studying the effect of cooling methods, reflective mirrors and phase change material. The finding demonstrated showed that the utilization of DC fans and a heat exchanger to cool the solar panel led to a decrease in its temperature and a reduction in energy loss, which increases the efficiency and wattage of the panel. In addition, the use of the phase change material helped cool the solar panel as a result of absorbing heat. It also works to improve the heating of the building during the afternoon, as it works to release heat into the space in which it is located. The use of reflective mirrors helped to increase solar radiation, which led to an increase in electrical energy. The highest electrical and thermal efficiency was recorded when using these different configurations together (10.42% and 78.59%), respectively.

Keywords

• Photovoltaic Trombe wall
• Reflective mirrors
• Phase change material