Influence of dust deposition, wind and rain on photovoltaic panels efficiency in Arequipa - Peru

The present study the influence of dust, wind and rain on the performance of a photovoltaic was evaluated. To determine efficiency of panels influenced by external factors, a system was designed and installed, voltage, electric current, solar irradiance and temperatures were measured. Three types of dust were used to simulate the atmospheric dust; cement, ashlar and clay. Parameter considered for deposition of the powders was surface density (g/m(2)). Particle size was determined by granulometry, samples were analyzed by SEM/EDS. For the wind factor, three speeds were determined within a range of average speeds recorded in urban areas, tests were carried out in natural rain conditions. Results show that 06:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. energy generation efficiency of panels decreases due to increase of dust deposition. As well, it is shown that influence of wind increases efficiency slightly and that the performance of panels is directly influenced in rainy conditions.