Efficiency enhancement of solar PV panel by incorporating wickless loop heat pipes with plate type evaporator

The increasing global demand for energy necessitates the exploration of novel and sustainable energy sources. Solar power generation has emerged as one of the fastest-growing energy sectors worldwide. However, the performance of photovoltaic (PV) cells is significantly impacted by the rise in junction temperature, which reduces conversion efficiency. This study investigates the integration of Wick Loop Heat Pipes with Plate-type Evaporators (WLHP-PE) to mitigate the heat accumulation in solar panels, thereby enhancing their efficiency. A rolled bond evaporator plate, mounted at the rear surface of the solar panel, serves as the evaporator for the WLHP-PE system. Acetone, employed as the working fluid, is filled to an optimal level within the WLHP-PE to absorb heat from the panel's junction. Upon heating, the liquid acetone vaporizes, transporting thermal energy to a condenser section immersed in a water bath. The condenser dissipates heat to the water, causing the acetone vapour to condense back into liquid form, completing the cycle. Experimental results demonstrate that the WLHP-PE system effectively reduces the panel temperature by 5 to 9 °C under given operating conditions, leading to a 10-12% improvement in the PV module's conversion efficiency. This enhancement is achieved without requiring any external power input.