Abstract
The efficiency of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is fundamental for the global energy transition; however, extreme temperatures in tropical regions significantly degrade performance, particularly in solar inverters. This study presents a novel assessment of active cooling as a strategy to mitigate thermal stress on inverters, focusing on the impact of air-conditioning (AC) in a rooftop PV system under real operating conditions. Unlike previous studies that rely on ambient temperature as a performance reference, this work uses inverter temperature to indicate operational efficiency directly. By analyzing two annual scenarios-one with and one without AC-this study evaluates the thermal effect on the inverter's power generation, quantifies efficiency gains, and conducts an economic analysis weighing cooling costs against energy yield improvements. Results show that AC cooling reduces inverter temperature by 7.4-8.5 degrees C, leading to a 1.5% increase in efficiency and a 1% reduction in DC voltage fluctuations. While these thermal benefits enhance system stability, the economic analysis reveals that the high operational costs of AC (USD 990/year) outweigh the revenue gains from increased energy production (USD 224/year), emphasizing the need for more cost-effective thermal management solutions. By providing empirical insights into the trade-offs of active cooling, this study advances the understanding of inverter thermal regulation. It offers practical guidance for improving PV system reliability in hot climates.
