Does Cleaning Solar Panels Boost Efficiency?
The impact of cleaning solar panels on energy production was investigated.
1Cleaning Solar Panels
Does cleaning solar panels increase energy production? To answer this question, tests were conducted on a small solar farm. It was known that the panels had not been cleaned in the last year, and the impact of this on efficiency was investigated.
2Test Methodology
A total of 16 panels were connected in two banks of 8 each. The inverter reported the power output of each bank separately. Measurements were taken before and during cleaning. The effect of cleaning on power output was examined.
3Cleaning Process
During the cleaning process, an unexpected drop in power ratio was observed when the first panel was washed. However, as more panels were cleaned, the power ratio increased. When all panels were cleaned, the ratio dropped again.
4Results
Cleaning increased the energy production of solar panels by 2%-5%. This increase resulted in an annual gain of approximately £60-£150. However, this gain decreased to near zero over a few years.
5Electric Leakage
A small electric leakage was felt while cleaning the panels. This was due to capacitive leakage in the inverter. However, this leakage did not pose a serious danger, and the cleaning process was completed safely.
6Renewal Decision
Replacing solar panels could increase energy production by 60%. However, the high tariffs benefiting the old system may make the renewal cost unfeasible. This situation highlights the contradictory outcomes of market incentives.
Original article: Hacker News: Front Page — Güneş Panellerini Temizlemek Verimliliği Artırır mı?