• Hybrid GO-MXene nanofluids cut PV thermal resistance by 41.1%. • 3D-OHP with nanofluids boosts PV output by 14.9%. • GO-MXene cools PV panels by 24°C, enhancing efficiency. • Nanofluid cooling adds 43 W/day power, improves exergy to 30.9%. • LCOE analysis confirms cost-effective PV thermal management. The efficiency and longevity of photovoltaic (PV) panels are significantly impaired by excessive operational heat accumulation, which can reduce electrical efficiency by 0.4–0.5% per °C above 25°