Efficiency of a PV module and solar thermal collector

AI Thread Summary
The efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) modules generally decreases as ambient temperature rises, although the extent of this decline varies by technology. In contrast, solar thermal collectors may not lose efficiency in their collection process and could even gain efficiency. However, when it comes to converting thermal energy into electricity, these collectors do experience efficiency losses due to standard heat engine principles. Overall, while temperature impacts both systems, the effects differ significantly between PV modules and solar thermal collectors. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for optimizing solar energy systems.
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Does the efficiency of a PV module and solar thermal collector go down as ambient temperature (outside temperature) increases? I know there are other factors that influence efficiency, but I'm only considering the one parameter of temperature on a PV module and solar thermal collector.
 
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says said:
Does the efficiency of a PV module and solar thermal collector go down as ambient temperature (outside temperature) increases? I know there are other factors that influence efficiency, but I'm only considering the one parameter of temperature on a PV module and solar thermal collector.
Most PV modules do lose efficiency as the temperature increases, but there are many different technologies and some are less affected than others.
The thermal collector will not lose efficiency in the collection itself, would probably gain efficiency. But it would lose efficiency, according to the standard heat engine laws, in the process of generating electricity.
 
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