Experimental Study of Cleaning Techniques for improving Performance of PV Modules

Abstract

The present study concentrates effects of soiling on the performance of three monocrystalline Solar panels (a reference panel, a nano coated and a self-cleaned). The panels were installed at a tilt angle of 33° facing south on the roof of Mechanical Engineering Department, Mirpur University of Science and Technology Mirpur Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K), Pakistan for a period of five weeks. The performance parameters such as solar irradiance, dust density, power output and the cell temperature of the panels were measured on weekly basis. The outcomes of the investigation demonstrate that power output of the reference, nano-coated and self-cleaning solar panels was observed to be reduced to 12%, 10%, and 8% respectively. The rapid fluctuation in the direct normal irradiation (DNI) is noticed for the whole experimental duration. Moreover, the temperature of reference, nano-coated and self-cleaning solar panels are observed to be decreased 13%, 11% and 12% respectively. The dust density increases for the whole experimental period.