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Photo-Voltaic system with active fluid cooling (PVFC)
Published on 28 September 2018
Italy
Basilicata
This is the good practice's implementation level. It can be national, regional or local.
About this good practice
The idea is to combine classical Photo-Voltaic technology with an active fluid cooling system in order to strongly reduce operative cell temperatures which means an increase of PV-cell electrical efficiency.
The system gives two main advantages: first increases electrical energy production of the PV system thanks to lower temperatures, allowing us to use solar energy in a more efficient way. Furthermore, heat absorbed by the cooling fluid can be used as for solar thermal collectors even if, in this case, temperatures are lower.
The system gives two main advantages: first increases electrical energy production of the PV system thanks to lower temperatures, allowing us to use solar energy in a more efficient way. Furthermore, heat absorbed by the cooling fluid can be used as for solar thermal collectors even if, in this case, temperatures are lower.
Resources needed
Production costs are still being estimated
Evidence of success
The system can be integrated with traditional systems for warm water production. The efficiency of this system strongly depends on climate conditions. The production of electrical energy can rise up to 15-20% than a standard photo-voltaic system in southern Italy regions.
Potential for learning or transfer
At the moment the first prototype of a water-cooled photovoltaic module has been built and tested in various climatic conditions. Soon it will be possible to have a marketable model.
Good practice owner
Organisation
University of Basilicata
Italy
Basilicata