Modelling and validating heat radiation from PV panels to a cool water mass

The technology for floating photovoltaics (PV) has received great attention in recent years. Offshore floating photovoltaic (oFPV) systems exhibit many advantages compared to land-based PV systems. One above all, the performance of PV systems is positively affected by the mild environmental temperatures at sea and the cooling effect of wind and of the water mass below the PV system.  

To properly assess the eventual energy yield gain of floating PV systems, this project focusses on modelling the cooling effect caused by the net heat radiation flow from the PV panels to the cooler water mass below. This cooling may result in a lower operating temperature of the PV panels, which in turn has a positive effect on the energy yield and the lifespan of the PV panels.  

The successful candidate will start with a literature review to identify the various modelling approaches and identify the most suitable for oFPV systems. Afterwards, he/she/they will build the selected model of this heat radiation phenomenon and validate it, either experimentally and/or through COMSOL simulations. The candidate will assist in extending the current thermal model (equivalent thermal RC-network) with this thermal cooling effect. 

The work will be conducted in the newly built laboratories at imec in EnergyVille, Genk, working withing the Energy Systems team.  

Skill required: You can read and comprehend scientific articles; you have a good knowledge of Python and COMSOL. Good knowledge of statistical data analysis, good lab skills and knowledge of the functioning principles of solar cells