What effect does light intensity have on the temperature of photovoltaic modules?

Light intensity has a direct and significant impact on the temperature of photovoltaic modules. Generally, the stronger the light intensity, the higher the temperature of the photovoltaic modules. The specific analysis is as follows:

Heat generation

When photovoltaic modules receive sunlight, part of the light energy is converted into electrical energy, but a considerable portion of the light energy is still dissipated within the modules in the form of heat. The greater the intensity of light, the more light energy is absorbed and the more heat is generated. This is because after the photon energy is absorbed by the semiconductor material, part of the electrons transition from the valence band to the conduction band to form an electric current, while the other part of the energy is converted into thermal energy in the form of lattice vibration, causing the temperature of the component to rise.

Heat dissipation process

Photovoltaic modules have various heat dissipation methods, including heat conduction to the surrounding environment, heat radiation, and air convection heat dissipation. However, under higher light intensity, the rate at which components generate heat is often greater than the rate at which they dissipate heat. Especially when the ambient temperature is high and the air circulation is poor, heat dissipation becomes more difficult, causing the temperature of the components to rise further.

The extent of temperature rise

Generally speaking, under standard test conditions (light intensity of 1000W/m² and ambient temperature of 25℃), the operating temperature of photovoltaic modules is usually around 40-60 ℃. When the intensity of light increases, the temperature of the components will rise accordingly. For example, when the light intensity reaches 1500W/m², the temperature of the component may rise to 70℃ or even higher. Of course, the specific extent of temperature increase is also related to factors such as the installation method of the components, environmental conditions, and the characteristics of the components themselves.

The intensity of light is positively correlated with the temperature of photovoltaic modules. In practical applications, it is necessary to fully consider the impact of light intensity on the temperature of components and take appropriate measures, such as optimizing the installation method to enhance ventilation and heat dissipation, and choosing a suitable installation location, to lower the temperature of components and reduce problems such as performance decline and shortened lifespan caused by excessively high temperatures