Optimization of Photovoltaic Performance Through the Integration of a Heatsink–Blower Cooling System Under Solar Simulator Testing Conditions

Godlisten Gladstone Kombe, Buruhan Haji Shame, Muh. Farhan Atha Farid, Tyo Febrino Fernandio Prasetyo, Nabella Sofa Nur Afiqoh, Nindia Nova Novena, Yuki Trisnoaji, Mangisi Larixon Lumban Gaol, Febrianto Sinaga, Singgih Dwi Prasetyo

Abstract

This study examines the impact of a heatsink-based cooling system, combined with forced airflow, on the thermal and electrical performance of a photovoltaic (PV) module under controlled irradiance conditions provided by a solar simulator. The cooling configuration employed is energy-efficient and straightforward, utilizing active convection enhanced by a blower in selected trials. Two primary conditions were compared: PV without cooling and PV with different cooling configurations. The experimental results indicate that the PV + Heatsink + Blower configuration achieved the highest average electrical efficiency of 13.43%, whereas the PV Only configuration recorded the lowest, 12.45%. This difference demonstrates that temperature regulation through a combination of heatsink and assisted airflow significantly improves electrical energy conversion. Furthermore, maintaining a lower, more stable operating temperature contributes to consistent power output and reduces heat accumulation, which can accelerate performance degradation. Overall, the findings suggest that integrating a low-energy, straightforward cooling design can be an effective strategy to enhance PV performance, particularly in testing environments that use a solar simulator.

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References

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.20961/mekanika.v25i1.114555

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