Abstract
Solar energy is a promising renewable resource for various applications. However, the elevated temperature of crystalline silicon-based photovoltaic (PV) modules can significantly reduce their electrical efficiency and lifespan. In this study, PV, PV/PCM, and PV/PCM-Fin systems incorporating two grades of paraffin as phase change materials (PCM) were modeled using the finite element method in COMSOL Multiphysics. A key innovation of this work is the integration of polycarbonate walls around the PCM container, combined with two PCM grades and systematic fin-number optimization under two distinct climate conditions. The results showed that the average temperature reduction in PV/PCM and PV/PCM-Fin systems compared to conventional PV modules was 3.81–4.68 K and 4.65–6.31 K, respectively. The presence of polycarbonate walls enhanced thermal insulation, resulting in peak temperature reductions of 3.5–4 K, which were approximately 1.5 times greater than in systems without walls. These configurations delayed the temperature rise of PV cells by 1–2.5 h and improved electrical efficiency by 0.485% and 0.496% for each degree of temperature decrease, respectively, so for 6 h of effective solar radiation during the day (Peak Sun Hours), electrical efficiency can be increased by 2.5%. Additionally, the PV/PCM-Fin system demonstrated faster melting (30 min earlier), higher paraffin temperature, and greater stored energy (437.3 kJ vs. 431.6 kJ), confirming its superior thermal performance. However, the optimal number of fins depends on regional climate, and their use may not always be economical. Finally, experimental comparisons confirmed COMSOL's reliability in simulating complex PV/PCM systems and assessing their performance under realistic conditions.