An Experimental Investigation into the Interplay of Wind, Dust and Temperature on Photovoltaic Performance in Tropical Conditions

It is well acknowledged that rises in cell temperatures and dust deposition adversely affect photovoltaic system performance. This is of particular concern in tropical regions where cell operating temperatures remain consistently high. Prevalent winds have the beneficial effect of lowering cell temperatures, but the influence of wind on dust accumulation on panel surfaces is not yet clear. Regulating surface temperatures and dust deposition are of significant interest as they not only influence system efficiency, but also the long term performance of the system. Active cooling of cells enhances efficiencies, but requires additional power supply. Similarly, controlling dust settlement requires additional energy and clean water, which inhibits the sustainability of the system. The interplay between wind speed, dust deposition and cell operating temperatures and their concurrent influence on photovoltaic system performance needed to be addressed. An outdoor experimental investigation was conducted to simulate and study the interplay between these parameters. The electrical performance of polycrystalline silicon panels was monitored under exposure to field insolation levels and ambient temperatures, but regulated wind conditions. The experimental results reveal interesting correlations between wind speed, dust deposition and photovoltaic system performance. The results of the study have been reported and discussed in this paper.