Enhancing Solar Panel Efficiency through Cost-Effective Cooling Strategies

Abstract:

This study addresses the critical challenge of maintaining optimal temperatures in solar panels to maximize energy conversion efficiency. Efficient cooling is essential to mitigate performance degradation due to elevated temperatures. Our research proposes a novel and cost-effective cooling system designed to enhance solar panel performance under varying environmental conditions. The system integrates a 2 mm thick copper plate with attached copper tubes, facilitating the flow of 10°C cold water across the panel's backside. Additionally, a precision water spraying system delivers 0.5 liters per minute on the panel's surface. To bolster passive cooling, we incorporate paraffin wax alongside copper plates as phase change materials (PCMs), leveraging its high latent heat storage capacity to absorb excess heat effectively. Operational oversight is managed by an Arduino UNO, continuously monitoring real-time temperature data from DS18B20 sensors placed strategically at 10 cm intervals. Activation thresholds (typically set between 25°C to 30°C) automatically engage cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal operating conditions. Water pumps, operating at a sustainable flow rate of 3 liters per minute, are powered by auxiliary solar panels, ensuring minimal operational costs and environmental impact. Our findings underscore the efficacy of this integrated cooling approach in reducing solar panel temperatures, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and sustainability. This cost-effective solution holds significant promise for advancing solar energy technologies, contributing to economic viability and environmental conservation in solar power generation.

• Periodical: Key Engineering Materials (Volume 1008)
• Pages: 79-92
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-B5wj0o
• Online since: March 2025
• Authors: S. Jennathu Beevi, A. Mahabuba, S. Karthick Gopinath, S. Visaga Varshini, A. Shoaib, R. Nafeena Abdul Munaf*
• Keywords: Microcontroller, Multi-Technique Cooling, Phase Change Materials, Solar Panel Efficiency, Sustainable Energy

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