Using a wind-driven ventilator to enhance a photovoltaic cell power generation

• A novel ventilation system is proposed to increase the overall energy production by a PV cell.
• The exhaust air from turbine ventilator is used as coolant fluid of the PV cell.
• Direct generating of electrical energy from turbine ventilators is reported.
• The performance of PV cell, in terms of output power, is improved up to 46.54%.

In the present study, a wind-driven roof top turbine ventilator, as cost effective ventilation device, was utilized to cool down a photovoltaic (PV) cell. In the proposed setup, three simultaneous goals, including ventilation, electrical power generation from ventilator spinning and cooling of the solar cell were achieved. The wind-driven turbine ventilator was equipped with a dynamo to generate power. By applying a blade, air was passed underneath of the solar cell to enhance its performance. As the result of this combination, beside normal ventilation by the ventilator, the performance of PV cell in terms of output power was improved up to 46.54%.

The schematic of the experimental test facility.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide