Experimental study on the losses of dusty PV modules considering irradiance levels and tilt angles

The performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules is constrained by several factors such as dust deposition density, irradiance intensity, and tilt angle during normal operation. Understanding the relationship among these factors can help to optimize the efficiency and stability of PV systems, thereby promoting the development and utilization of clean energy. The aim of this study is to investigate the intrinsic relationship between these factors and the output parameters of PV modules through experimental methods. The low-iron glass was artificially contaminated with a mixture of alcohol and dust to produce different dust deposition densities. A xenon lamp was used to irradiate the dusty PV module, and the tilt angle of the module was adjusted. The resulting data was exported, consolidated, and used to develop mathematical models. These models were used to understand the effect of these factors on the maximum power loss rate. The results showed that glass transmittance is 45.5 % at a deposition density of 10.13 g/m2. At an irradiance of 1000 W/m2, a PV module with a dust deposition density of 10.13 g/m2 exhibited a maximum power loss of 50.5 % at a tilt angle of 60 degrees. Tilt angle has the greatest impact on maximum power loss rate, followed by irradiance intensity, and dust deposition density has the least impact. A quadratic model was developed with maximum power loss rate as the dependent variable and irradiance intensity, tilt angle, and dust deposition density as independent variables, providing valuable insights for future studies. These research findings are useful for optimizing and operating PV systems.