Experimental Study of Dust Accumulation Effects on Solar Panel Efficiency

Abstract

In arid and semi-arid climates, dust accumulation is one of the most important environmental factors that have a negative impact on the energy output and long-term performance of photovoltaic modules. This effect of different dust deposition amounts has been experimentally investigated for the electrical efficiency of solar PV panels. The panel was tested under controlled operating conditions with clean, lightly dusty, moderately dusty, and heavily dusty surfaces. For each condition, solar irradiance, surface temperature, output voltage, current, output power, and conversion efficiency were measured. The results showed that the panels' performance decreased with increasing dust density. Light dust deposition was found to cause slight reductions in power generation; however, moderate and heavy dust deposition caused much reductions in short circuit current, power generation, and efficiency. This was mainly attributed to blocking and diffusion of the solar radiation due to the dust layer. Additionally, it was found that the current and power were more damaged than the open circuit voltage. Likewise, the efficiency losses were greater because of the higher surface temperatures in the presence of dust. It was cleaned to restore most of its original performance, suggesting that this was because of contamination of the surface, rather than degradation of the panels. Based on the results obtained, it is confirmed that there is a need for a regular inspection and cleaning program to ensure a continuous supply of reliable solar energy generation in a dusty condition. The study provides practical evidence that cleaning programs should be developed in relation to the levels of dust and the climatic conditions and losses in energy anticipated.