Assessing The Influence of Air Quality on Photovoltaic Performance

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of photovoltaic (PV) systems as a clean and sustainable energy source has underscored the importance of understanding the various factors affecting their performance. Among these, air quality has emerged as a critical yet often overlooked parameter that can significantly impact PV efficiency and longevity. This comprehensive review aims to provide a detailed analysis of the influence of air quality on PV performance, encompassing both the direct and indirect effects. The direct effects of air quality on PV performance include the deposition of particulate matter, pollutants and contaminants on the surface of PV modules, which can lead to reduced light absorption and efficiency losses. Furthermore, pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) can contribute to the degradation of materials within PV cells, potentially leading to a decrease in overall performance over time. Indirectly, air quality can also affect PV performance through alterations in atmospheric conditions, including changes in solar irradiance due to scattering and absorption by aerosols and pollutants. Additionally, variations in temperature and humidity levels driven by air quality parameters can influence the thermal behavior and operating temperature of PV modules, further affecting their efficiency. This review systematically examines studies and experiments conducted over the past decade, encompassing a wide range of geographical locations and environmental conditions. It synthesizes findings related to the impact of specific air pollutants, such as particulate matter, ozone, and heavy metals, on PV performance, as well as the mechanisms underlying these effects.