Cooling techniques of the PV module: A review

The electrical efficiency of a solar photovoltaic panel, is low. Sunlight is the essential input to generate electricity, but they put an adverse effect on its performance due to the rise in temperature at the back-side of the panel. The rise in temperature is directly related to the sunlight whose energy is converted into heat and may put a negative effect on the electrical parameters and the life span of the cell. The implementation of cooling techniques will result in reducing the excess heat generated and to reduce overall cell temperature. Most of the research has two paths, one is to enhance the efficiency of the solar PV cell and another to ensure a longer life span at the same time. This paper explains the cooling methods i.e. heat sink, heat pipe, PCM material based, microchannel, thermoelectric (Peltier). Different feature and capability of cooling techniques are explained, to provide valuable information and direction for the researcher for future research, to enhance or upgrade the cooling techniques. The finding of review reveals that water-based microchannel gave efficient cooling besides hot water for various application and combination with PCM make it more efficient in both electrical and thermal aspects. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.