PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH INTEGRATED COOLING AND TRACKING SYSTEM

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems and methods are disclosed, wherein the system includes a PV module having an integrated frame structure, PV cell rows, solar tracking system, and cooling system. A protective cover may be included with the frame structure to form an enclosed area in which the PC cell rows, cooling system, and tracking system are placed, thereby protecting them from the elements. The cooling system may be a water circulation based cooling system, and the integrated frame of the PV module may be directly mounted on a foundation consisting of a water tank. The water tank may serve as the storage unit for the water cooling system, with the water from the tank being pumped through the cooling profiles at each cell row in the frame and then returned to the tank. Other mounting structures may also form the foundation for the integrated frame.