Effect of water flow on PV module: A case study

Sun is a great source of energy. Solar Energy is non-polluting and one of the most efficient and affordable energy alternatives available today. Solar energy can be utilised in two ways either in the form of thermal energy or electrical energy using photovoltaic (PV). The conversion efficiency of photovoltaic depends upon its operating temperature. The operating temperature of photovoltaic module is maintained as low as possible by withdrawing/utilizing the thermal energy associated with it. The thermal energy available on the PV module can be carried away by flowing any fluid (water, air etc.) above it. This type of system is known as hybrid photovoltaic thermal (PVT) system. In the present study, the analytical expressions for temperature dependent electrical efficiency have been derived for opaque and semitransparent PV module with water flow. Then comparison between efficiencies have been done for different climatic condition of New Delhi, India. Then it is observed that there is remarkable change in efficiency when water is flow on the top of the surface of PV module.