Optimization of Edible Oil Cooling Using Response Surface Methodology—Central Composite Design for Sustainable Cooling

ABSTRACT Increased worldwide demand for renewable energy has triggered considerable evolution of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, which harnesses sunlight for electricity. Yet, one of the main problems in achieving PV maximum efficiency is heat, which the cells produce during operation, as high temperatures lower cell efficiency and overall performance. Therefore, heat generated is controlled using the proposed cooling method. The proposed research is based on edible oils such as olive oil, sunflower oil, and castor oil as coolant medium. These oils are used in first timeact as phase‐changing material (PCM) in cooling the monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels through an incorporated oil box fixed on the rear side of the PV panel. Oil is allowed to flow from the storage tank to the rear side of the unit and into the collector tank. Thus, the heat of the front side PV panel is reduced. The research surface methodology (RSM) is used to optimize and enhance the efficiency. The significant inputs of the proposed analysis are Capacity (C), Time (T), Temperature (H), and the Output Power (P). The optimal condition for P is at [C] of 95%, [T] of 30 min, and [H] of 68.5°C. The critical results obtained for castor oil in monocrystalline and polycrystalline PV panels are reduction in temperature by 3.29°C and 4.35°C and increase in efficiency by 17.25% and 20.7%, respectively. Castor oil proved to be superior compared to other edible oil in terms of physical, chemical, and thermal properties and stability. Finally, the proposed methods are integrating the natural coolant selection, innovative backside cooling tank design, and easy oil management for enhanced thermal regulation and sustainable operation.