Introduction

This chapter covers the significance of power output performance of all types of solar power system installations. Regardless of type of technology, whether solar photovoltaic power, concentrator type solar power systems, or solar thermal technologies, system upkeep and maintenance are of great importance. To take advantage of maximum return on investment, solar power systems, though quite robust and reliable from a physical and operation point of view, in order to harvest maximum amount of energy production, must at all times be kept at peak performance. This chapter discusses the significance of upkeep of solar power systems.

Effects of Dust on Solar Power System Energy Output Performance

As discussed in Chapter 1, solar power output performance is directly proportional to the amount of solar irradiance that impacts the photovoltaic modules. Therefore, any obstacle that blocks or refracts the solar rays will prevent photons from being absorbed and converted into electrical current. Most common of all such obstacles are airborne particulates such as dust and water particulate in the air that gradually settle on the surface of PV panels.