An Experimental Investigation Into the Impact of Environmental Factors on Solar Panel Efficiency

Electricity generation predominantly relies on nonrenewable energy sources, primarily fossil fuels. The anticipated depletion of these resources has catalyzed a shift toward renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric power, which are abundant and environmentally sustainable. This research investigates the impact of environmental factors, specifically dust, on the efficiency of photovoltaic panels. Two identical solar panels were deployed in Karachi, Pakistan, under controlled experimental conditions: one panel was regularly cleaned. At the same time, the other was left exposed to accumulated dust over a month. Systematic recordings of voltage and current facilitated the calculation of power output and efficiency, enabling an analysis of the impact of dust on solar panel performance. The study's findings indicate a notable correlation between dust accumulation and reduced solar panel efficiency. This research, situated in Karachi's environmental context, provides foundational data that can inform subsequent studies across diverse regions within Pakistan, where additional environmental factors may be assessed. The insights gained contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how environmental conditions affect solar panel efficiency, offering valuable reference points for comparative analyses and the broader field of renewable energy research.