Thermal Regulation of Photovoltaic Panels Using Aluminum Fins and RT Phase Change Materials: A Numerical Study

Thermal management of solar panels is a major challenge, particularly in hot climates, and has attracted growing interest from both researchers and professionals in the photovoltaic (PV) sector. In this study, a two-dimensional numerical analysis was conducted to evaluate the thermal performance of an aluminum box filled with a phase change material (PCM) used for cooling a solar panel. The impact of integrating horizontal fins placed either on one side or on both sides of the PV/PCM system, was also examined to optimize heat transfer and stabilize temperature. The simulations indicate that a configuration with five fins arranged on one side, spaced 18.25 mm apart, provides effective cooling. The use of RT25 PCM maintains the surface temperature at 28 °C for 100 minutes before it gradually increases without exceeding 65 °C. Similarly, RT35 also demonstrates good thermal performance, maintaining the temperature between 35 and 43 °C for 252 minutes before eventually reaching a peak of 61 °C. These results highlight the effectiveness of the fins and the critical role of PCM selection in enhancing the thermal regulation of solar panels.