Work

Optimizing concentrated photovoltaic module efficiency using Nanofluid-Based cooling

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • Achieved a 55% temperature reduction using Al 2 O 3 /water nanofluid cooling. • Enhanced electrical output by 34.8% with optimized CPV cooling design. • Nanofluid cooling reduces CO 2 emissions enabling sustainable energy solutions. • Validates numerical models and addressed practical nanofluid cooling challenges. Photovoltaic technology offers a promising and environmentally sustainable solution to global energy demands. However, its efficiency is often compromised by elevated temperatures caused by intense solar radiation. Effective cooling strategies are essential to enhance electricity generation and prolong the lifespan of photovoltaic cells. This study explored the enhancement of electricity production in concentrated photovoltaic systems through the use of Al 2 O 3 /water nanofluid as a cooling medium. An experimental analysis evaluated the thermal and electrical efficiencies of cooled versus uncooled concentrated photovoltaic panels. Aluminum oxide nanoparticles were utilized in various loadings ranging from 0.2 wt% to 0.5 wt% at a flow rate of 1.25 L/min to assess their impact on concentrated photovoltaic performance. The results demonstrated that 0.5 wt% Al 2 O 3 /water nanofluid achieved the most significant reduction in PV surface temperature lowering it by 55 % compared to an uncooled panel. Under peak solar intensity, the electrical output of the concentrated photovoltaic panels was recorded as 43.22 Wh for the uncooled panel. In contrast, the cooled panels produced 48.87 Wh with water, 51.01 Wh with 0.2 wt% Al 2 O 3 /water nanofluid, and 54.30 Wh with 0.5 wt% Al 2 O 3 /water nanofluid. For the 0.5 wt% Al 2 O 3 nanofluid, the electrical and thermal efficiencies were measured at 34.80 % and 64.42 %, respectively.

Source: Energy Conversion and Management X

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecmx.2025.100928