The investigation of the influencing operational parameters as well as optimization of the solar energy system is the key factors to enhance the power conversion efficiency. The different optimization methods in solar energy applications have been utilized to improve performance efficiency.
The performance and efficiency of solar PV vary according to types of cells. The mono-crystalline solar cells feature high energy efficiency, but it has a complex manufacturing process. The multi-crystalline solar cells are cost-effective but suffer from low efficiency in comparison to mono-crystalline solar cells.
Technologically, the main challenge for the photovoltaic industry is improving PV module energy conversion efficiencies. Therefore, a variety of techniques have been tested, applied and deployed on PV and PV/T systems. Combined methods have also been a crucial impact toward efficiency improvement endeavors.
These installations engender insignificant shadow and water contribute to cooling the PV module, thus improving its efficiency. Compared to ground-mounted PV modules, an enhancement in the efficiency of about 11 % can be reached .
This cooling system incorporates water as a coolant to reduce temperature losses and enhance efficiency. Huang et al. (2006) presented the procedures to increase the electrical efficiency and power output of solar PV by using a phase change material (PCM).
The conversion efficiency higher than 14.69 % was obtained for average yearly PV panel temperature close to 22 °C. An experimentation process and a viability analysis were conducted by about the water evaporation and algal development by installing large-surface semi-transparent polymer solar cells.