Energy- and exergy-based economical and environmental (4E) evaluation of the influence of natural pollutants on PV array performance

Abstract

AbstractIn the present investigation, thermodynamic/eco/environmental analysis of the relationship between time-dependent particle deposition and thermal-based losses and incident solar radiation intensity on the PV front cover glass during the months with the least precipitation in the city of Samsun (Turkey) was performed. To evaluate the effect of dust accumulation, controlled experiments were carried out where the surface of one set of PV panels was periodically cleaned with water and the other one was left to natural contamination. The results showed that over three months, the difference in energy loss rates between cleaned and uncleaned PV arrays ranged from 2.53% to 8.1%, with the exergy efficiency difference measured at 1.3%–2.44%. According to the energy-based analyzes, August was the most effective month, with cleaned PV arrays reducing CO2 emissions by 401.5 kg and saving $6.02, compared to uncleaned PV arrays which reduced emissions by 362.21 kg and cost $5.43, respectively. Similarly, in the exergy-based evaluation, August was the most efficient month, with cleaned PV arrays decreasing CO2 emissions by 401.5 kg and saving $6.02, compared to uncleaned PV arrays, which dropped CO2 emissions by 362.21 kg and costing $5.43, respectively. While the cleaned surfaces were initially positive, a decrease was observed over time. However, the efficiency of PV decreased with increasing panel temperature. The study concludes that PV surfaces need to be cleaned at certain intervals, depending on the location’s weather conditions.