Investigating the Impact of Surface Textured Solar Photovoltaic Dummies for Soiling Mitigation: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Study

Abstract

Soiling of solar collectors is a significant factor causing energy losses in solar photovoltaic power plants. The present study explores the concept of passive soiling mitigation by utilizing surface-textured solar photovoltaic dummies to minimize soiling on solar photovoltaic panels. Notably, this approach has not been extensively explored in the literature, despite its promising potential for enhancing photovoltaic system performance. Employing Computational Fluid Dynamics methodology, the dust-capturing capabilities of these surface textured photovoltaic dummies were explored. The investigation adopted the Discreet Phase Modelling approach coupled with the shear stress transport k-ω model for turbulence modelling. The study systematically analysed the optimal positioning of the dummy within distances between panel and dummy ranging from 2 m to 3 m and varied heights and tilts of installation. The wind analysis of the study area revealed an average wind speed of 3.31 m/s, with stronger winds primarily from the East of South-East to North-East. Experimental designs, incorporating dummy distance, height, and tilt angle, demonstrated that the dummy accumulated 58 % more dust compared to the photovoltaic panel due to micro-turbulences induced by its textured surface. The dummy tilt angle was identified as a critical factor influencing dust deposition, with higher angles increasing turbulent kinetic energy and enhancing dust capture. Additionally, the installation height and distance between the dummy and panel significantly impacted soiling, with closer distances offering better protection. Surface impressions on the dummy further increased dust deposition by 23 % through enhanced friction and reduced airflow. This study highlights the promising potential of surface-textured photovoltaic dummies in mitigating soiling, a concept not widely explored in existing literature. The study advocates for the widespread adoption of these photovoltaic dummies, particularly in environments prone to frequent soiling and where the installation configuration does not allow for easy application of other methods of soiling mitigation.