Recent advances in the simulation of solar photovoltaic cell cooling systems using nanofluids

Solar photovoltaic (PV) modules convert solar irradiation into electricity, and their efficiency decreases as the surface temperature increases. Integrating thermal systems with PV panels (PVT) lowers the surface temperature, improves the electrical efficiency, and uses heat loss for domestic hot water. Due to the significance of PVT systems, a large number of numerical research has been carried out to study the effects of different parameters on thermo-electrical efficiency. This chapter aims to systematically review recent advances in nanofluid-based PVT systems, categorize them into different groups, and summarize highlights on this topic that are beneficial for both academia and industry partners. In addition, there are still some challenges and gaps proposed in this review for future works. This study indicates that PVT nanofluid-based systems perform better than PVT water-based systems. Furthermore, hybrid and ternary nanofluids show higher efficiency and lower pressure drop compared to mono-nanofluids in PVT systems. The economic analysis conducted in a few previous studies shows that the investment recovery in PV and PVT systems could be 6 and 4 years, respectively. It is also confirmed that the operational, economic, and environmental aspects of PVT systems can make this novel technique practical and beneficial.