A Novel Fan-Based Cooling System for Photovoltaic Panels: Impact on Thermal Regulation and Electrical Efficiency
Document Type : Research Article
Authors
Center of Excellence in Energy Conversion, School of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran, Azadi Ave., P.O. Box: 11155-9567
10.22059/jser.2026.407563.1679
Abstract
This study experimentally investigates a suction-based fan cooling system to improve the thermal and electrical performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules under outdoor conditions. Low-power axial fans extract heated air from a sealed plenum behind the panel, inducing distributed inflow through inlet holes. This limits warm-air recirculation and creates uniform convective streams across the backside. Experiments were performed on a clear, sunny day with a peak irradiance of 1030 W/m² and an ambient temperature of 32 °C. The system achieved a maximum surface-temperature drop of 15.5 °C relative to an uncooled module. With the experimental results subjected to a rigorous uncertainty analysis, infrared thermography confirmed a more uniform temperature with no visible hot spots. Electrical performance was assessed using a 15-minute duty cycle (5 min ON / 10 min OFF) to balance cooling and auxiliary energy use. Based on the manufacturer’s temperature coefficient combined with measured surface temperature and irradiance, the system yielded an estimated net electrical efficiency gain of 0.94% after accounting for fan consumption. Compared with conventional rear-side blowing, the suction architecture demonstrated superior cooling, improved thermal uniformity, and potentially better long-term stability, offering a compact, energy-efficient solution for PV modules in warm climates.
Keywords
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