Theoretical design and experimental evaluation of a PV+PCM system in the mediterranean climate

The temperature of the photovoltaic systems during their operation is a crucial determinant of their energy performance, life cycle and efficiency. A modified photovoltaic system (PV + PCM system) combining a conventional photovoltaic module (PV) with a selected type of phase change material (PCM) is designed and assessed in Mediterranean climate during a year-long period. This type of analysis allowed to recognise the core operational aspects (e.g. seasonal performance, stability) of such a system and serve a deeper understanding of the potential faults and underestimations. According to the results of this study, the operating temperature difference could arise up to 26.6 °C, so the yearly power generation of the new system increases by 5.7%. The obtained results provide essential findings on the benefits of the proposed system and complement the existing literature in terms of the real field experience of this configuration's operation.