A new publication in EPJ Photovoltaics explores practical, energy-boosting solutions for rooftop solar systems.
oPEN Lab partners CENER (National Renewable Energy Centre of Spain) and the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) have published a new scientific paper proposing a practical method to increase the performance and durability of rooftop solar panels through smart ventilation.
The paper, titled “New approach of PV and thermal modeling to develop feasible cooling solutions for PV in buildings,” was recently published in EPJ Photovoltaics. It presents a new design that creates a narrow air channel between conventional photovoltaic (PV) panels and a building’s roof. The result: a cost-effective cooling effect that reduces panel temperatures and increases energy output.
To support this concept, the researchers built a full thermal simulation using the Modelica modeling framework, and validated it through a three-month experimental campaign. Their model accurately tracked the air temperature, solar power output, and PV panel temperatures.
The study applied the model to a real commercial building initially scheduled for renovation through the oPEN Lab project, the IWER building located in Pamplona (Spain). By testing different fan control strategy, the team identified an optimized a four-step ventilation strategy that increased net energy output by 2.3% annually, with temperature reductions in the PV modules of up to 35 °C on hot days. This improvement can extend the lifetime of PV modules.
The work showcases how smart retrofits and simulation tools can help deliver more efficient and durable renewable energy systems.
Publication details:
Cornago, I., Ezquer, M., Sorbet, F. J., Kalms, A., Diarce, G., Irulegi, M. O., & Zaversky, F. (2025). New approach of PV and thermal modeling to develop feasible cooling solutions for PV in buildings. EPJ Photovoltaics, 16(19), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1051/epjpv/2025007
Learn more about the oPEN Lab living lab in Pamplona here.
