Effects of particle-laden environments on large-scale solar photovoltaic plants

Wind-propelled debris in solar photovoltaic (PV) plants diminishes efficiency and damages panel structures. Dust particles ranging from 1 to 300 μm accumulate and heat panel surfaces, reducing generation up to 35% even in mild conditions. Greater velocities and mixing launch larger objects, increasing deposition rates and fatigue-load impact. Previous works address individual panel loading, but little is known about particle trajectories in panel wakes of PV arrays. In this study, we explore the behavior of particle-laden flow within turbulent, multi-row solar farm canopies and discuss the role of PV design variations on turbulent particle interactions. Wind tunnel experiments vary module orientation and imposed environmental conditions as observed in open landscapes. Flow behavior is captured via particle image velocimetry (PIV) in the wakes of subsequent model PV panels. Variations such as inflow velocity (U_∞= 2.5 to 10 m/s), array configuration (e.g. angle, spacing), particle concentration (ϕ_v= 0 to 2 × 10^5), and turbulence intensity represent a range of operating solar farm conditions. Results inform on fundamental behavior of particles in turbulent flat plate array wakes, while giving insight toward mitigating adverse effects of debris-laden impact on PV farm generation.