Electro-Optical Model of Soiling Effects on Photovoltaic Panels and Performance Implications

In this paper, a detailed model of a photovoltaic (PV) panel is used to study the accumulation of dust on solar panels. The presence of dust diminishes the incident light intensity penetrating the panel’s cover glass, as it increases the reflection of light by particles. This phenomenon, commonly known as the “soiling effect”, presents a significant challenge to PV systems on a global scale. Two basic models of the equivalent circuits of a solar cell can be found, namely the single-diode model and the two-diode models. The limitation of efficiency data in manufacturers’ datasheets has encouraged us to develop an equivalent electrical model that is efficient under dust conditions, integrated with optical transmittance considerations to investigate the soiling effect. The proposed approach is based on the use of experimental current-voltage (I-V) characteristics with simulated data using MATLAB/Simulink. Our research outcomes underscores the feasibility of accurately quantifying the reduction in energy production resulting from soiling by assessing the optical transmittance of accumulated dust on the surface of PV glass.