Dust effect on optical transmittance of photovoltaic module glazing in a desert region

The energy strategy of Algeria is based on the acceleration of the development of solar energy. The strategic choice is motivated by the availability of a huge potential in solar energy. This energy is the major focus of the energetic program where the photovoltaic (PV) solar systems constitute an essential part. The photovoltaic energy fully meets the needs of facilities in remote desert areas where connection to the grid is too expensive. However, the southern Algerian regions are generally characterized by frequent sandstorms. This natural phenomenon causes the dust accumulation on PV modules. Consequently, this may reduce the efficiency of PV array. The objective of this research is to study the effects of the dirt accumulation on the optical transmittance of a PV array glazing in desert regions of Algeria. Firstly, we have validated our model of irradiance on tilted plane, which was the result of Hottel model improvement for Algerian sites. Secondly, the experiments have been conducted on the effect of the dust particle accumulation on the PV modules glazing. The tests were performed with the PVPM2540C in natural conditions to determine the current/voltage characteristics and see the resulting efficiency. It was found in this study, that the dust accumulation on the PV generator glazing surface tilted at 32 degrees can significantly decrease the irradiance transmittance during the day by an average between 0 % and 8 % after an exposure period of several months. Crown Copyright (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier Ltd.