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An Investigation on the Pollen-Induced Soiling Losses in Utility-Scale PV Plants

Conference ·
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Soiling, the accumulation of dust and other contaminants on the surface of photovoltaic (PV) modules, is a common factor that can negatively impact the performance of PV systems. In this study, the authors aim to analyze the impact of pollen on soiling losses in PV systems located in North Carolina, USA, particularly during the spring season. The performance data of two utility-scale PV plants was collected and analyzed using the two soiling extraction methods. Environmental data, including croplands and vegetation was also collected and analyzed to identify correlations with soiling losses. The results of the study may help improve understanding of necessary operation and maintenance activities for PV plants and provide new insights into the phenomenon of pollen deposition on PV systems.

Research Organization:
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Golden, CO (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Renewable Power Office. Solar Energy Technologies Office
DOE Contract Number:
AC36-08GO28308
OSTI ID:
2305650
Report Number(s):
NREL/CP-5K00-88827; MainId:89606; UUID:ebfd81d2-233d-4748-aa14-ea68f655b8f4; MainAdminId:71819
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (17)

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Related Subjects

SOLAR ENERGY
correlation
data mining
maintenance engineering
photovoltaic systems
springs
surface contamination
vegetation