Journal of Solar Energy Research

Sustainable Cooling Technique for Maximizing Performance of Photovoltaic Panel in The Hot Climate of Rajasthan

Document Type : SI:Emerging Trends in Photothermal Conversion for Solar Energy Harvesting

Authors

1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, MBM University Jodhpur, India

2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, MBM University, Jodhpur,India

3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, MBM University, Jodhpur, India

4 Birmingham Energy Institute, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B155 2TT, United Kingdom

Abstract

This study evaluates the performance of an automated water cooling system to enhance the performance of a Photovoltaic (PV) panel in the climatic conditions of Rajasthan. A 105-watt photovoltaic system with integrated electrical, mechanical and control components was developed and tested. MATLAB was used to simulate panel performance under different sunlight and temperature conditions. Using two Identical panels, one cooled and the other noncooled, the system operated for 3 minutes every hour during daylight. Results showed a 3.6% increase in energy output and a 3.57°C reduction in panel temperature for the cooled system. With just 27 minutes of daily operation, the cooling method proved significantly more efficient than those in previous studies. The findings highlight the potential of automated water cooling in optimizing PV performance under high temperature conditions like Rajasthan, contributing to sustainable and efficient solar energy generation. This approach combines simplicity, low operating time, and measurable performance benefits.

Keywords

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Journal of Solar Energy Research
Volume 10, Emerging Trends in Photothermal Conversion for Solar Energy Harvesting
August 2025
Pages 56-71