Work

Experimental investigation of power losses in PV panels soiling and designing an affordable cleaning solution

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of soiling on the power output of photovoltaic (PV) panels and presents a cost-effective cleaning solution to mitigate this issue.Conducted in the semi-arid coastal environment of Karachi, Pakistan, the research focuses on both polycrystalline and monocrystalline PV panels.Results indicate that soiling significantly reduces power output, with clean panels generating 7.8% to 15.6% more power than their dirty counterparts.A novel wiper-based cleaning system, designed using locally sourced materials, was tested and proved effective in restoring the panels' efficiency.The economic analysis suggests a payback period of less than two years for this cleaning system.The study provides practical recommendations for PV panel maintenance and highlights potential areas for future research.

Source: Sigma Journal of Engineering and Natural Sciences – Sigma Mühendislik ve Fen Bilimleri Dergisi

DOI: 10.14744/sigma.2025.00121

Author: Salman AALAM

Institution: National University of Sciences and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic Systems

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413037505