A three-dimensional (3D) numerical model was developed to simulate the use of a phase change material linked to a photovoltaic (PV) system to control the temperature rise of the PV cells. The model can be used to predict temperatures, velocity fields and vortex formation within the system. The 3D predictions have been compared with those from a previously developed experimental validated two-dimensional (2D) finite-volume heat transfer model conjugated hydro-dynamically to solve the Navier-Stokes and energy equations. It was found that for the systems simulated with appropriate boundary conditions, the 2D model predictions compare well with those of the 3D model. The 3D model was used to predict the temperature distributions when the heat transfer to the phase change material was enhanced by high thermal conductivity pin fins. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.