PV Cell Temperature Prediction Under Various Atmospheric Conditions

The present study analyses various mathematical models from the technical literature for calculating photovoltaic cell temperature, emphasizing wind velocity as a key parameter. Since cell temperature significantly affects photovoltaic module efficiency, researchers are actively pursuing simple and cost-effective cooling methods for these systems. First, the study surveys existing mathematical models for computing cell temperature and evaluates how model parameters affect calculations. Second, it demonstrates computational outcomes using selected formulae—chosen based on criteria outlined in the paper—to predict PV cell temperatures under varying wind conditions using meteorological data from Bucharest, Romania. The analysis employs a transient mathematical model based on a single ordinary differential equation, validated against experimental data from previous studies. The results reveal circumstances where alternative mathematical approaches produce similar outcomes, alongside situations where substantial discrepancies emerge. The investigation concludes by contrasting computational forecasts against empirical observations, providing valuable guidance for future research in this domain.