Investigation of Operating Temperature as a Key Factor in Determining Photovoltaic Module Cooling Specifications

Abstract Many studies have shown that the temperature of photovoltaic modules (PVM) significantly affects their performance. An effective thermal management system is required to maintain optimal efficiency. This investigation is part of an ongoing study on PVM thermal management that aims to maintain the PVM power output at high temperatures, that is, above 30°C. To design an efficient cooler, it is important to determine the operating temperature range of the PVM. This study focused on measuring the temperature of the back surface of a PVM with a capacity of 120 W using a thermocouple connected to a temperature data logger. Measurements were carried out in 3 (three) stages to improve the operating temperatures’ accuracy, accuracy, and trend. The first phase was carried out in September, October, November 2020, July 2021, and June 2023, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The measurement was in the parking area on the second floor of the Faculty of Engineering, Pasundan University, Bandung. The results of the 3rd phase of the investigation revealed that the rear surface temperature ranged from 19°C in the morning at 06:00 to a peak of 64.5°C at 12:15 when the irradiance reached 535 W/m 2 . Then, the temperature gradually drops to approximately 30°C at 17:00 and drops back to approximately 24°C at sunset. Based on these findings, the optimal operating temperature range for PVM chillers is 30°C to 70°C, providing important data as a cooling design parameter.