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The Effect of an Air Gap on Solar Panel Efficiency and House Temperature

AJAS · 2026 Energy and Transport (inferred)

Nidhi Ajmera · Texas Academy of Science

Overview

Solar panels are clean energy systems that use the photovoltaic (PV) effect to convert radiant energy into electricity. PV panel energy conversion efficiency is reduced at higher temperatures, which occur when panels are exposed to sunlight. This study examined whether PV panel presence and the air gap distance between a PV panel and a roof, both passive cooling features, affect panel voltages and internal house temperature. Secondary experimentation included airflow, an active cooling feature, to test the air gap under realistic windy conditions. It was hypothesized that solar panel presence and a larger air gap would decrease panel and house temperature and increase panel efficiency by improving heat transfer to the environment. An 8" cubed plywood house was built with a shingled roof and a PV panel. All surfaces were painted white and insulated to isolate heat transfer to the roof. Experiments compared the effect of air gap height on PV panel temperature, house temperature, and panel output voltage upon exposure to a heat lamp for 20 minutes. Results confirmed the hypothesis: PV panel presence and increased air gap height reduced temperatures and maintained panel voltages. With no solar panel present, roof and house temperature increased by 36.2℃ and 11.3℃, respectively. With a PV panel present with no air gap, temperatures were significantly cooler, rising by 31.8℃ for the roof and 9.2℃ for the house. A 1.75" air gap (the largest gap studied) sustained the lowest average temperature rise at 12.3℃ for roof temperature and 6.6℃ for house temperature. This shows that the PV panel minimizes heat transfer into the house by obscuring roof surfaces from direct infrared light, leading to cooler temperatures. Air gap presence allows for convective air circulation. The increased air volume acts as a thermal insulator, reducing heat transfer to internal house regions. However, wind was more significant in regulating temperature and voltage efficiency. The 1.75" gap (no wind) panel output voltage dropped by 0.67 V. With wind, it only reduced by 0.2 V. All experiments with wind, regardless of air gap height, saw a similar voltage reduction. Wind moves cooler air over the exposed panel and roof surfaces, providing for rapid heat transfer. The trends of this research were also seen in a real-world residence with solar panels, further strengthening the conclusions. This calls for future study of optimal air gap height for solar paneled roofing. With the issues of climate change and high energy consumption rates, multifaceted, sustainable architecture must be used.

Competition history

  • AJAS 2026 Category not listed

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Source: AAAS Annual Meeting (Confex) / American Junior Academy of Science

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