A CFD analysis of photovoltaic panel cooling: a review

Abstract Increases in operating temperature significantly degrade the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels, leading to reduced power output and limiting the wider adoption of solar energy technologies. This paper reviews recent developments in PV cooling strategies, with particular emphasis on studies that employ Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyze and enhance these approaches. The effectiveness of various active and passive cooling techniques—such as phase-change material (PCM) systems, water- and air-based cooling, and nanofluids—is compared. The review highlights that CFD has become a crucial tool for evaluating the influence of parameters such as coolant type, flow rate, film thickness, and environmental conditions on PV module temperature and performance. Key findings indicate that CFD-validated hybrid cooling strategies and the integration of advanced materials offer substantial potential for improving both efficiency and sustainability.