Optimization of photovoltaic efficiency in arid regions via IoT-controlled jute fabric evaporative cooling

Purpose: Photovoltaic (PV) modules in arid regions suffer efficiency losses up to $$25%$$ due to overheating, while conventional cooling methods consume large amounts of water or energy. This study develops a sustainable, low-water passive evaporative cooling system using jute fabric with IoT-based deterministic control. Methodology: A 30Wp monocrystalline module was cooled by three jute layers with 0∘/90∘ fiber orientation, wetted via a threshold-controlled pump (Pref = 22W, Tref = 55∘C) . Field tests were conducted in July 2025 (ambient up to 45.4∘C , irradiance 848W/m² ). Results: Maximum temperature reduction of 21.4∘C (28.34%) and relative power gain of $$40.44%$$ (absolute efficiency $$+1.5$$ percentage points, from $$15.3%$$ to $$16.8%$$ ). Water consumption 0.14L/h/m² , recovery rate $$81.3%$$ , evaporation loss 0.026L/h/m² , payback $$< 3$$ years. Conclusions: The biodegradable jute-IoT system enables large-scale deployment in desert climates with minimal water footprint. CO₂ emissions reduction is estimated at 58kg/m²/year .