Evaluating and mitigating the effects of dust accumulation on photovoltaic panel performance

• Dust samples from four different geographical locations are used. • Fine dust caused up to 31 % power loss at 10 g concentration for Mono-crystalline panels. • Leave sand caused average surface temperatures to rise to up to 61°C. • Power loss due to dust is significantly lower for Mono PERC half-cell technology. • An increase in panel tilt angle resulted in self-cleaning and improved performance. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are vital for the transition to cleaner and more sustainable power sources. PV technology is beneficial for diminishing carbon emissions, combating climate change, and attaining energy independence. The main drawbacks are that their performance can be affected by conditions such as dust accumulation, elevated temperatures, pollution, and variations in sunlight intensity. This study analyzes the effect of accumulation of real-world dust samples including fine and course sand grains, and with leaf or wheat remains, on the performance of two commercial technologies: Mono-crystalline and Mono PERC half-cell PV panels, under controlled outdoor conditions. We captured actual data from the solar panels while maintaining a layer of dust over them. Investigation indicates that for Mono-crystalline panels, fine dust caused the highest power loss of up to 31% at a concentration of 10 g and the leaf dust caused the temperature to increase by up to 61°C due to the thermal insulation indicating the panels to be more susceptible to degradation. Experimental evaluation revealed that dust concentration, its specific heat, C p and thermal conductivity, k are the crucial properties controlling the panel performance . Mono PERC panels outperformed the conventional Mono panels, recovering 12–15% more power and showing better thermal response. A tilt angle of 30°–45° resulted in less soiling that led to a power recovery of 18–22% and a temperature reduction of 5–10°C. This dual-effect analysis—optical shading and thermal insulation—on commercial technologies offers practical insights on the effects of dust on solar panel efficiency. The results reported here can be utilized for the prevention of dust accumulation on PV panels leading to a sustainable energy future in dusty environments.