Computational Simulation in Solar Energy: Effect of Passive Cooling in the Generation of Photovoltaic Cells in Pachuca de Soto, Mexico

Objective: The objective of this research work is to determine the viability of using passive cooling in photovoltaic systems that operate in the metropolitan area of Pachuca, Mexico, taking advantage of the strong gusts in the region and thereby increasing the generation of energy produced. Theoretical Framework: This research is based on principles such as the principle of conservation of energy, specifically referring to heat transfer, the law of entropy, and the photogeneration of electric current. Method: The experimental strategy used to carry out this research consisted of three stages. In the first, experimental measurements were carried out using a Davis Vantage Pro2 Plus model weather station in a period that spanned from May 19, 2019, to September 21, 2021. The second stage consisted of processing the data to obtain the maximum, average and minimum values of wind speeds in the region and with it, the temperatures and irradiances corresponding to said values. Finally, the third stage consisted of carrying out computational simulations of external flow and heat transfer in the geometries previously developed for this purpose. Results and Discussion: The results obtained showed that during the autumn months the wind speed allows the performance of the photovoltaic systems to be increased by a maximum of 11.22%. However, this value is drastically reduced in the spring months when the wind speed reduces to around 4% of the maximum speed. Research Implications: The results of this research can be used in the design of photovoltaic generation systems in the metropolitan area of Pachuca, which extends to the municipalities of Mineral de la Reforma, Zempoala, Mineral del Chico and San Agustín Tlaxiaca. Likewise, it allows us to begin research into the solar energy potential of the region and its potential future use. Originality/Value: The region is characterized by receiving high sunshine according to data from the Mexican Center for Innovation in Solar Energy and the Solar Radiation Observatory belonging to the National Autonomous University of Mexico. However, practical research applied to this field of study is limited to the measurement of meteorological values. This study contributes to the state of the art by providing reference conditions for the operation of photovoltaic systems in the state of Hidalgo.