Effect of Dust on PV Modules

Solar panels are significantly affected by internal and external factors such as aging, radiation, shading, temperature, wind, pollution, and cleaning. Dust can be defined as small particles in crushed form smaller than 500 µm [1]. Dust can come from various sources such as construction sites, industrial plants, and dust storms. It consists of visible and invisible, floating and falling solid particles. The degree of efficiency degradation increases as the mass of dust particles accumulated on the surface of solar panels increases, leading to a reduction in power output and module efficiency.

Furthermore, as dust particle size decreases, smaller particles obstruct light transmission through the surface of the solar panel. As a result, power output decreases. The effect of contamination on incoming light on the glass is shown in Figure 1.

Different types of pollutants can include red soil, ash, sand, calcium carbonate, silica, etc. Air pollution can significantly affect the energy efficiency of solar panels. Even a short period after cleaning the panels, a decrease in energy production of 6.5% can occur. During long dry periods without rainfall, the energy loss due to dust accumulation can exceed 20%. Dust particles vary in terms of phase, type, chemical, and physical properties, depending on many environmental conditions. In addition to wind speed, air, humidity, and temperature play an important role in determining how dust is collected and deposited on solar panels [3]. Most researchers have studied the impact of dust accumulation on PV modules’ performance, and in these studies, it was observed that the performance of solar panels was significantly affected by the accumulation of red soil, limestone, and, finally, fly ash samples. When heavy layers of dust accumulate on the surface of solar panels, a significant reduction of about 10-20% in power output occurs. Figure 2 shows examples of dust accumulation. In the first image, in addition to dust, tire soot has covered the panel’s surface. The second image shows pollution caused by the flue gases from a textile company’s roof and nearby gas concrete plants. In the third image, the panels are covered with ceramic dust and other dust derivatives.

In a laboratory study, an artificial test was conducted on a 60 W solar panel using 100 W light and 7 different dust samples. In the test, three radiation levels of 650 / 750 / 850 W/m² were compared with 7 different samples. The comparison revealed a significant decrease in power output due to dust accumulation on the solar panel. Over a two-month period, a 4.7% decrease was observed, and in Saudi Arabia, a 40% decrease was observed over a six-month period [4].

As a result, it was concluded that the average daily energy loss caused by accumulated dust on the PV module surface over a year is approximately 4.4%. During long dry periods without rainfall, the daily energy loss may exceed 20%. As the mass of dust accumulated on the module surface increases and particle size decreases, the module’s power output and efficiency decrease.

References:

Dilip Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Chapter 12 – Dust Control, Editor(s): Dilip Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Sustainable Management of Coal Preparation, Woodhead Publishing, 2018, Pages 265-278.
G. P. Smestad, T. A. Germer, H. Alrashidi, E. F. Fernández, S. Dey, H. Brahma, N. Sarmah, A. Ghosh, N. Sellami, I. A. I. Hassan, M. Desouky, A. Kasry, B. Pesala, S. Sundaram, F. Almonacid, K. S. Reddy, T. K. Mallick, and L. Micheli, “Modelling photovoltaic soiling losses through optical characterization,” Scientific Reports, vol. 10, no. 1, 2020.
ZA Derwish, HA Kazem, K Sopian, MA Alghoul… – International Journal of Energy and Environment, 2013, “Impact of some environmental variables with dust on solar photovoltaic (PV) performance: review and research status.”
T. Sarver, A. Al-Qaraghuli, L. L. Kazmerski, A comprehensive review of the impact of dust on the use of solar energy: History, investigations, results, literature, and mitigation approaches. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 22, 698–733 (2013).

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

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23/11/202210/09/2025

Why Doesn’t Rainwater Clean Solar Panels?

Solar panel owners often think that rainwater is enough to keep them clean. However, this is like assuming that rainwater can keep your car or home windows clean. Rainwater is not sufficient to remove dirt as well as other issues such as bird droppings, dead insects, pollen, and pollution. Rainwater typically lacks the necessary pressure to remove layers of dirt, such as bird droppings or buildup from the rain. Just like in window cleaning, both rainwater and tap water can leave stains. This is due to the particles present in the water. When rainwater evaporates, it leaves behind dust particles on the surface. These particles vary depending on the location of the solar plant. For example, in industrial zones, rain is more likely to contain acid rain. After dry seasons, the rain brings down dust particles from the air, which then stick to the panel surface, leaving stains.

Furthermore, the loose dust on the panel surface, combined with rain, causes dust to accumulate under each solar panel, leading to significant heating. This buildup can cause the panel surface temperature to rise, from 41°C–45°C to 71.3°C in the accumulation area. Bird droppings or other materials that stick to the surface with rainwater, if left uncleaned, can oxidize and lead to hotspot formation.

When one photovoltaic cell on a panel is shaded, it forces current through the other cells, causing them to heat up. This can significantly reduce the energy output of your panels and shorten their lifespan. Worse yet, it may lead to hotspot formation, rendering your panels unusable. Hotspot formation can even cause fires on your solar panels. In thermal images, we can observe the temperature rising to 80°C due to the accumulation of loose dust particles carried by rainwater.

To prevent issues like hotspot formation and pollution-related losses, solar panels must be cleaned properly. This requires the use of a purified water system. Purified water can be obtained using a deionization (DI) unit or a reverse osmosis/deionization (RODI) unit.

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Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 05.12.2024

16/08/202210/09/2025

What is a Solar Panel Cleaning Robot?

What is a Solar Panel Cleaning Robot?

A solar panel cleaning robot is a machine specifically designed to clean solar panels. Over time, solar panels can become covered with a thin layer of dust and dirt, which can reduce their efficiency. A solar panel cleaning robot helps keep your panels clean and free from debris, ensuring they continue to operate at maximum efficiency.

These robots typically consist of a small brush or roller to clean the dirt and dust off the solar panel surface. They are usually equipped with sensors to prevent damage to the delicate cells on the panel. Some solar panel cleaning robots also come with a vacuum attachment that helps remove loose dirt and debris.

Benefits of Solar Panel Cleaning Robots

Solar panel cleaning robots offer several advantages over traditional cleaning methods, including increased efficiency and safety. These robots can clean many panels in a short amount of time, making them much more efficient than manual methods.

Designed to operate autonomously, solar panel cleaning robots do not require human input to function. Instead, they use sensors to navigate between panels and identify areas that need cleaning. These robots can clean more effectively and efficiently than manual methods, and they can also reach hard-to-access areas that may be difficult for humans to reach. Additionally, by cleaning off dust, dirt, and other debris, solar panel cleaning robots help extend the life of the panels, preventing damage that can accumulate over time.

For example, the Robsys RTM Pro model increases efficiency by up to 35% on the panels it cleans. It can clean between 7,000 and 10,000 panels in an 8-hour workday. Since cleaning is critical for maintaining high production efficiency in solar panels, they need to be cleaned monthly depending on the pollution levels in the area. In regions with high pollution, it is recommended to clean the panels weekly. Considering all these factors, solar panel cleaning robots offer significant benefits.

Cost of Solar Panel Cleaning Robots

The cost of solar panel cleaning robots is becoming more affordable as technology advances. These robots are an excellent way to keep your solar panels clean and free from debris that could reduce their efficiency. While purchasing a solar panel cleaning robot may initially cost more than hiring a professional cleaning team, the long-term savings on electricity bills make it a worthwhile investment.

You might also be interested in: Why Should Robotic Cleaning Be Chosen in Land Projects?

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

18/07/202210/09/2025

Why Should I Clean Solar Panels with Cleaning Robots?

Why Should I Use Cleaning Robots for Solar Panels?

Solar panels create a sustainable and renewable energy source by using the heat and light from the sun. They convert the energy they produce into electricity, helping to reduce costs related to electricity consumption. Since solar panels are installed on rooftops, open fields, or vacant lands, dust, mud, and pollen gradually stick to their surfaces. To maximize the efficiency of solar panels and extend their lifespan, they need to be cleaned periodically. As the Robsys team, in this article, we will provide detailed answers to why solar panel cleaning should be done with a solar panel cleaning robot and share information about Robsys robots.

Why is Solar Panel Cleaning Important?

The average lifespan of solar panels depends on build quality, workmanship, and usage conditions, typically around 25 years. If you do not clean your solar panels during this period, the electricity efficiency you receive will decrease year by year.
To increase the efficiency of Solar Power Plants (GES), regular cleaning is necessary. Solar panels absorb the heat and light from the sun through their pores and convert it into electricity. A dirty and dusty surface prevents the panel from generating power. To achieve nominal power output, dust, dirt, pollen, and various contaminants should not stick to the panel surfaces. If unwanted dirt is not cleaned for a long time, it may cause panel malfunction.
To obtain high efficiency from the solar panel and prevent damage caused by dirt, periodic cleaning is required. During regular cleaning, ionized pure water should be used, and chemical cleaners or high-pressure water should be avoided.
Solar panels should not be stepped on during cleaning. If micro-cracks form on the panels, water and other liquids that penetrate inside may cause major problems in the power plant.

Solar Panel Cleaning Robot Prices

As the Robsys team, we develop professional solutions to increase energy efficiency and ensure sustainability in solar power plants using our solar cleaning robots. Since we prioritize unique, functional, and technological designs in our solutions, we produce innovative and high-capacity robots. With our Robsys RTM Series, YTM Series, and DTM Series solar panel cleaning robot models, you can use sustainable energy sources more efficiently.

Our latest product, the RTM series cleaning robots, developed after intense work by our R&D team, offer effective and easy cleaning with a daily cleaning capacity of 1-3 MW and remote control. The two dual-directional systems allow detailed cleaning without damaging the panels. Available in battery-operated and electric models, you can easily clean solar panels on roofs, grounds, gardens, and all types of projects.

The YTM Series cleaning machines are designed for fixed projects. With their strong build and high cleaning capacity, they can clean areas of 2-4 MW daily. The YTM series solar panel cleaning robot models provide easy use with remote control and are suitable for all panel types with wet and dry operation capabilities. Although designed for projects, they are lightweight and portable, weighing approximately 80-120 kg.

The DTM series cleaning robots feature a vertical operation system. Compatible with all solar panel systems, this model has a compact system integrated with pure water. DTM series cleaning robots, the most preferred for cleaning solar panels on roofs, open fields, and vertical installations, support both wet and dry operation modes.

Solar Panel Cleaning Robot Prices

To get high efficiency from solar panels installed for sustainable and renewable solar energy, you can use cleaning robots. With Robsys solar panel cleaning robots, you can reduce costs while increasing your electricity efficiency. Prices of solar panel cleaning robots vary according to the class and features of the robots.

As the Robsys team, we continue to work on automation cleaning robots that increase energy efficiency and sustainability in solar power plants. To learn the prices of Robsys patented products used in solar panel cleaning, you can call us at +90 216 206 00 96, fill out the form on our contact page, or send your requests to info@rob-sys.com.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

16/07/202210/09/2025

How is Solar Panel Cleaning Done? What Should Be Considered?

With the advancement of technology, the demand for energy has increased. As a result, the importance of renewable energy sources has been realized, and various systems have been developed to harness these sources. While many different systems have been created for utilizing renewable energy, the most commonly used system is solar panels. Solar panels are actively used in various areas, primarily in homes and workplaces. Solar energy captured by solar panels can be converted into electrical energy, which can then be used in our everyday technological devices. Solar panels offer numerous advantages, especially being environmentally friendly. However, to maintain their desired efficiency and ensure long-term usage, a process called Solar Panel Cleaning must be applied.

In this article, we will answer the following questions: What is Solar Panel Cleaning? Why Should I Clean My Solar Panels? How Is Solar Panel Cleaning Done? What Should Be Considered During Solar Panel Cleaning? We will also discuss the causes of solar panel contamination and cleaning with Robsys cleaning robots.

What is Solar Panel Cleaning?

There are several factors that affect the efficiency of solar panels, and one of them is Solar Panel Cleaning. Solar panel cleaning is the process of removing dirt and contaminants from the panels to increase their efficiency and lifespan.

With solar panel cleaning, the system’s efficiency is maintained at a high level, even over the years, and its lifespan remains average or even above average. During cleaning, various types of dirt and debris on the panels are removed without causing any harm to the system. However, there are important considerations to take into account when cleaning solar panels.

Causes of Solar Panel Contamination

There are various reasons why solar panels get dirty. Some of the most common causes include:

Salt and ammonia residue near livestock farms, poultry farms, or coastal areas.
Cracks, breaks, or corrosion caused by using inappropriate cleaning materials or inexperienced personnel.
Bird droppings on the solar panels.
Residues and dirt caused by high humidity and temperature.
Insects or bugs dying on the solar panels.
Agricultural chemicals or pesticide dust if the panels are near agricultural spraying areas.
Soot and ash from industrial plants or exhaust gases from vehicles.
Pollens and flower dust from trees falling on the panels.
Dust carried by the wind, causing both dry and wet dust deposits.
Limescale and residue from using tap water during cleaning.
Debris from leaves, seeds, or organic materials from surrounding trees.

The cause of contamination on a solar panel changes based on the environmental conditions where it is located.

How Is Solar Panel Cleaning Done?

During solar panel cleaning, pure water or certain alcohol-based cleaners are commonly used. Alcohol-based cleaners are typically preferred in winter to prevent freezing on the panels. However, alcohol-based cleaners can leave water stains, which might reduce the panel’s efficiency, so pure water is generally used when the risk of freezing is low.

Deionized pure water does not leave any stains on the solar panels, enhancing the efficiency of the cleaning process. Additionally, pure water is an insulator, preventing electric shock risks and avoiding corrosion.

During the cleaning process, non-abrasive solar cloths should be used. If solar cloths are unavailable, soft dish sponges or soft brushes can be used. It’s also recommended not to use high-pressure water during cleaning, as it could cause micro-cracks in the panels.

Considerations During Solar Panel Cleaning

Solar panel cleaning is crucial for maintaining the system’s efficiency and lifespan. However, improper handling during the cleaning process can damage the system, either knowingly or unknowingly. Here are some key considerations during cleaning:

Safety: Solar panels are often installed on high roofs or elevated areas, so during the cleaning process, ensure that proper safety measures are in place to avoid falls. Since solar panels generate electricity, it is crucial to wear insulated gloves and use deionized pure water to avoid electric shock.
Panel Integrity: Avoid stepping on the panels during cleaning as it may cause visible or invisible cracks. This can affect the performance of the panels and lead to potential electrical hazards due to rainwater or cleaning fluids leaking into cracks.
Avoid Chemical Cleaners: Do not use detergents or chemical cleaning agents, as they can damage the panels and reduce their efficiency.
Temperature Considerations: Solar panel cleaning should ideally be done in the early morning or late evening when the panels are cool. Cleaning them while hot can make the process more difficult.
Regular Maintenance: Panel cleaning should be performed at the beginning of each season and at regular intervals to maintain their efficiency. Special solar brushes should be used during the cleaning process.
Water Temperature: The temperature of the cleaning water should be close to the temperature of the panel. Avoid pouring cold water on hot panels, as this may cause thermal shock, rendering the panels unusable.

As shown, solar panel cleaning is not as simple as it might seem, and various factors need to be carefully considered to avoid damaging the panels. For a professional cleaning job, you can consult a company that specializes in solar panel maintenance or opt for a robotic cleaning solution.

Robsys Cleaning Robots for Panel Cleaning

As mentioned earlier, solar panel cleaning can be done manually or with the help of cleaning robots. Robsys offers cleaning robots specifically designed for solar panel cleaning. But why should you consider robotic cleaning?

Human Safety
Panel Safety
Energy Continuity

At Robsys, we have been developing robotic solutions for solar panel cleaning for 10 years. With our patented cleaning robots, we enhance the energy efficiency and lifespan of solar panels, contributing to a sustainable future in energy. Our robots are easy to use, long-lasting, and come with fast post-sales service, including remote support and on-site service within 72 hours if needed.

We offer solar panel cleaning robots in 3 different series:

RTM Series: These robots are designed for both ground and rooftop installations. They feature remote control operation, daily cleaning capacity of 1-3 MW, dual directional brush system, and both battery and electric options. With their advanced technology, they can clean panels effectively without scratching the glass.
YTM Series: These robots are customized for specific projects and institutions. They can clean 2-6 MW per day and are equipped with advanced features such as remote control, high-speed cleaning (12-16 meters per minute), and a durable build to withstand different conditions.

To provide you with an effective and efficient solution, Robsys cleaning robots are a superior alternative to manual cleaning, offering advantages in speed and safety.

For more information or inquiries, you can reach out to Robsys at +90 216 206 00 96, visit our contact page, or email info@rob-sys.com.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

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Category: Academy

Effect of Dust on PV Modules

Effect of Dust on PV Modules

Why Doesn’t Rainwater Clean Solar Panels?

Why Doesn’t Rainwater Clean Solar Panels?

Why Doesn’t Rainwater Clean Solar Panels?

What is a Solar Panel Cleaning Robot?

What is a Solar Panel Cleaning Robot?

Benefits of Solar Panel Cleaning Robots

Cost of Solar Panel Cleaning Robots

Why Should I Clean Solar Panels with Cleaning Robots?

Why Should I Use Cleaning Robots for Solar Panels?

Why is Solar Panel Cleaning Important?

Solar Panel Cleaning Robot Prices

Solar Panel Cleaning Robot Prices

How is Solar Panel Cleaning Done? What Should Be Considered?

How is Solar Panel Cleaning Done? What Should Be Considered?

What is Solar Panel Cleaning?

Causes of Solar Panel Contamination

How Is Solar Panel Cleaning Done?

Considerations During Solar Panel Cleaning

Robsys Cleaning Robots for Panel Cleaning

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