This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cooling techniques for photovoltaic panels (PV) in enhancing their performance, especially in high-temperature regions such as Iraq. Therefore, two water-based cooling systems were implemented: first, a closed-loop cooling system (CLCS), and second, an open-loop cooling system (OLCS). Both systems were examined with a reference working condition using an uncooled solar panel, which was incorporated as a standard condition alongside the proposed systems. The performance of two cooling systems was assessed under the same weather conditions and a WFR range of 1–3 LPM. The experiments were carried out in Al-Shirqat City, Iraq (35.29°N, 43.45°E, 153 m), where the panels were installed at a tilt angle of 44° relative to the horizontal and pointed due south. The performance of all PV panels, represented by electrical efficiency (EF), panel surface temperature (PST), and electrical power production (EPP), was evaluated during three tested days from 25 to 27 September 2024. The results showed that the uncooled panel temperature reached 61 ℃ at noon with an EF of approximately 9.6% along the three tested days. In comparison, the CLCS showed improved efficiency, recording 10.2% on September 25, 10.6% on September 26, and 11.9% on September 27. In contrast, the open system outperformed the closed system, achieving efficiencies of 11.1% on September 25, 11.5% on September 26, and 12.2% on September 27. The results confirmed that water cooling, especially in the open system, enhances EF, making it an effective option for increasing solar energy production in hot environments.