Study of the correlation between the dust density accumulated on photovoltaic module’s surface and their performance characteristics degradation

Abstract

One of the major constraints related to the operating conditions of photovoltaic systems in the Sahelian environment is relative to the deposits of dust on the surface of the PV modules. Indeed, the Sahel is characterized by frequent and permanent sandstorm that impact on its strong solar potential. However, opinions are still divided on the significant impact of dust on photovoltaic modules production. This paper deals with the correlation between the density of deposited dust on the surface of crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules and the impact on their performances. This study is carried out on two different modules a monocrystalline and a polycrystalline technology. It focuses on the open-circuit voltage (VOCthe short-circuit current (Iscthe fill factor (FF) and more particularly on the maximum power (Pmax). This paper presents the methodology and the experimental study used to measure the environmental parameters (irradiation, temperature, and humidity), the density of deposited dust and the performance characteristics (ISCVOCFF and Pmax). Finally, the results of the correlation between the density of deposited dust and the performance characteristics of PV modules are presented.