A novel configuration of a dual concentrated photovoltaic system: Thermal, optical, and electrical performance analysis

Abstract

In this work, a validated finite element-based coupled optical, thermal, and electrical model is used to assess the performance of a dual concentrated photovoltaic system thermally regulated using a PCM for the environmental conditions of Lahore, Pakistan. Thermal management of the system is achieved using a selected PCM. That has a melting temperature of 53-56?C, a thermal conductivity of 19 W/mK, and heat of fusion of 220 kJ/kg. Thermal regulation and power output of the system are analyzed for a clear day of six months of a year. It is found that the maximum temperature of the upper PV cell is ~80?C while for the bottom PV cell is ~82?C in July. The percentage power gain obtained after the addition of an upper concentrated PV cell is ~17.9%. The maximum and minimum power of the system is found to be 0.079 kWh/day/m2 and 0.041 kWh/day/m2 in May and November, respectively.