Why do you need to wash solar panels?
A photovoltaic installation consists of 3 basic components. The structure, inverter and photovoltaic modules, of course, comes with cables, connectors, screws, safety boxes, etc. In this post, we will focus on one of the key elements of the installation.
Photovoltaic panels – principle of operation
In general, the construction of a single module is not complicated. Glass, silicon plaques, Eva film, junction box and aluminum frame. But that’s not what’s important. The most important is the principle of photovoltaic panels. How is electricity generated from the sun? The explanation is simple: solar cells are semiconductor elements in which the conversion of solar energy into electricity takes place. This conversion results in a potential difference, or electrical voltage.
To ensure that the sun’s rays falling on the module’s surface have the best chance of being converted into electricity, it’s worth making sure the glass is clean!
So why is it necessary to wash the panels?
Results of ongoing research
According to the Institute TÜV Rheinland one of the most common reasons for module failure is dirt. As a result of the data collected and analyzed from photovoltaic farms, industrial installations and micro-installations, the Institute confirmed that dirty panels have a real impact on the performance of the entire installation and also on the life of the modules themselves. Research on the impact of pollution on panel performance is also being conducted by the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at Częstochowa University of Technology, in which we are pleased to participate.
When and what is the best way to wash the panels?
Recommendations are to wash twice every year. The first wash should be done in early spring, so as to get rid of the tarnish from winter, while the second wash should be done at the beginning of autumn, so as to “pull” as much as possible from the sun while the days are still fairly long.
For solar panel cleaning, use demineralized water, that is, water that is free of foreign ions. This water does not leave stains or streaks.
Why do you need to wash solar panels? – CONCLUSION:
- Clean panels mean greater solar penetration
- Clean panels mean reduced risk of failure
- Clean panels means prolonging their lifespan
And when did you wash your photovoltaic installation?
Are you planning to build your photovoltaic farm or looking for an O&M service company?
Do you want to purchase a photovoltaic or wind farm project and need an efficient and professional audit / due diligence?
Are you looking for a photovoltaic panel recycleror cleaning company for photovoltaic installations and farms?
If you are ready to act, so are we!
