Numerical Optimization of PV/T Systems Under High Solar Irradiance: Efficiency Gains Through Minimal Airflow Cooling

Abstract

ABSTRACT Photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems, which combine electricity and heat generation, are crucial for maximizing solar energy utilization; however, their performance is hindered by thermal‐induced efficiency losses in high‐irradiance environments. This study addresses the challenge of optimizing PV/T systems for arid, sunny climates, where elevated temperatures reduce electrical efficiency by up to 0.5% per °C. The aim is to develop a novel, energy‐efficient PV/T system with low‐flow‐rate air cooling to enhance thermal and electrical performance while minimizing operational complexity. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations in ANSYS Fluent, we model a PV/T system integrated with a solar air collector operating at a low airflow rate of 0.02 kg/s, compared to a conventional PV panel, across solar radiation levels ranging from 300 to 1000 W/m². Parametric analysis of airflow rates (0.01–0.05 kg/s) and tube diameters (20–50 mm) was conducted to optimize performance. The proposed system achieves a thermal efficiency of 52.88% (125.4% higher than the reference case's 23.46%), an electrical efficiency of 14.04% (1.66% improvement), and a 2.67 K reduction in panel temperature. It reduces fan power by 50%–70% (5–10 W/m²) compared to high‐flow systems, increases exergy efficiency by 71%–186%, and enhances the sustainability index by 11.4%, leading to a 10%–15% reduction in CO 2 emissions. These findings demonstrate that the low‐flow‐rate PV/T design offers a scalable and sustainable solution for high‐irradiance regions, such as the Middle East and North Africa, enabling efficient energy harvesting with reduced environmental impact.