Assessing The Impact of Transforming Solar Panels from Photovoltaic to Thermal Photovoltaic Systems Within the Iraqi Climate and Studying the Effect of Force Convection

Abstract

In the quest to reduce dependence on fossil fuels such as oil, coal and gas, and maximize the use of clean and sustainable energy sources, solar energy stands out as a leading and viable option. This form of energy harnesses electrical energy through solar panels. Over the years, photovoltaic panels have advanced significantly, but they face a major challenge: high operating temperatures. Photovoltaic panels use only a portion of the radiant energy they receive, converting the rest into unwanted heat. This not only reduces their productivity, but also shortens their lifespan. To address this problem and enhance the efficiency of incident radiation energy, thermal photovoltaic panels have been developed. This research indicates that thermal photovoltaic panels generate 3 to 4 watts more electrical energy per hour than conventional photovoltaic panels. In addition, thermal photovoltaic panels maintain lower surface temperatures, being 0.2°C to 2°C cooler than standard photovoltaic panels. This improvement extends to temperatures on the other side of the thermal PV panel and at different locations, especially during the summer. Furthermore, the thermal modules inside the PV panels can increase the temperature of the water passing through them by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius, using only one panel. Experiments involving forced convection on thermal PV panels have shown that while forced convection does not enhance electricity production – in fact, its creation consumes more electricity than it generates, reducing net power production by 1.2 to 27 watts – it does improve thermal efficiency.