Modeling of soiling losses on photovoltaic module based on transmittance loss effect

The photovoltaic modules are mostly installed outdoors, exposing them to different conditions. These conditions significantly affect their performance. One of the most influential factors on photovoltaic modules is the soiling phenomenon from dust deposition. Dust deposition on the surface of the modules causes transmittance loss. Some studies in different parts of the world have tried to find mathematical correlations between particulate deposition and transmittance. These correlations are a function of dust characteristics and environmental factors. This study proposes a new methodology to mathematically combine the photovoltaic model and transmittance loss correlations. The proposed model could examine and predict the effect of soiling on photovoltaic modules’ performance. Three photovoltaic modules with different capacities are selected. Using the proposed model, they are modeled by assuming clean and dirty photovoltaic surfaces depending on the installation conditions. This study is based on actual data from the center of Tehran, located at 35° 41′ north latitude and 51° 23′ east longitude for 12 months in the year 2020. The module’s performance was investigated in the presence of dust. The presented results are validated by comparing them with other studies. The results show that the soiling effect is not dependent on the modules’ capacity.