@article{GASCO2026128859,
title = {Performance evaluation of PV panels with the Maisotsenko cooling cycle},
journal = {Applied Thermal Engineering},
volume = {282},
pages = {128859},
year = {2026},
issn = {1359-4311},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2025.128859},
url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1359431125034519},
author = {C. Gascó and J. Ruiz},
keywords = {PV cooling, Evaporative cooling, M-cycle, Thermal management, PV electrical efficiency, Active cooling, PV performance enhancement},
abstract = {Photovoltaic (PV) solar technology is a key element of the energy transition. However, the efficiency of PV cells decreases with rising operating temperatures, stressing the need for effective thermal management strategies. This study investigates a novel cooling approach consisting of a fan-forced rear duct pre-cooled using an M-cooler, which enables sub-wet bulb cooling. Analytical models for the M-cooler and PV panel were developed, coupled and validated against results reported in the literature. Afterwards, a detailed parametric analysis was conducted to optimise both geometric and operational variables with respect to PV electrical efficiency and net power generation, revealing trade-offs between both performance indicators. Seasonal simulations using hourly weather data for Alicante demonstrated that the proposed strategy achieved PV electrical efficiencies of up to 16.1% and delivered 6.6% more energy than an uncooled panel over the summer period. When compared with three alternative air-based cooling systems (forced convection, direct evaporative cooling, and evaporative solar chimney) the M-cycle system exhibited superior performance. These results demonstrate that integrating dew-point evaporative cooling with PV panels is a robust and effective strategy to enhance PV performance. The study advances beyond previous efforts in the literature by providing a quantitative long-term assessment of M-cooler cooling performance, considering not only PV electrical efficiency but also net energy generation and water consumption.}
}