Global analysis of photovoltaic energy output enhanced by phase change material cooling.

Highlights: [•] Phase change materials (PCMs) can passively cool PV panels to increase energy output. [•] A global numerical analysis of PV energy output with PCM cooling is presented. [•] The most promising locations for PCM cooling are in the tropics. [•] A relative performance improvement of over 6% is possible in some regions. [•] A sub-optimal PCM melting temperature still produces a beneficial energy output enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]