Effects of PM2.5 fine particles on the efficiency of photovoltaic installations

The air in urban areas is heavily subjected to fine particles (mainly PM2.5 and PM10), due to the development of industrial activity and daily traffic. These particles can settle on buildings, plants, and even photovoltaic panels, hindering photosynthesis and decreasing the performance of solar installations. In this study, we aim to simulate the operation of a solar panel under two scenarios: the first being the concentration of PM2.5 in the international standard, and the second in a highly charged climate with these particles. We will compare the power output of the solar panel in both scenarios. Real data on PM2.5 concentrations in the city of Algiers will be used in our simulations.