Assessing Saharan sandstorms impact on Solar PV systems

During 2024, our master’s student Jaime Cortés, conducted research as part of his Energy Engineering master’s thesis at Sapienza Università di Roma, focusing on the impact of Saharan dust storms on photovoltaic (PV) energy generation across Europe. The study analyzed data from six countries during the first months of 2024, using satellite-derived irradiance data, ground-measured aerosol optical depth (AOD), and national electricity data to evaluate the effects of 11 dust storms on solar energy performance.

Saharan sandstorms cause high losses on European PV performance

The study showed notable reductions in solar irradiance and electricity generation due to increased aerosol concentrations, with effects seen at both the local and national levels. For instance, during the mid-February 2024 storm in Western Europe, irradiance dropped by up to 900 Wh/m² in some locations, impacting countries such as Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

In Southeastern Europe, two significant storms occurred in mid-to-late March and April, with peak irradiance reductions exceeding 1,500 Wh/m². Countries like Italy, Greece, and the Balkans experienced considerable disruptions. On a national scale, Italy experienced the highest losses, with capacity factor and market share dropping by over 80% during the March storm. Greece followed with reductions exceeding 70% in April, while Portugal, Spain, and France recorded decreases of 50%, 60%, and 30%, respectively, in February.

PVRADAR soiling modeling highlights sandstorm effects in Palermo, Italy

In collaboration with PVRADAR, Jaime analyzed a case study near Palermo, Italy, to assess the effects of dust storms on PV system soiling losses. The findings highlighted a pattern of increased soiling during April, with PV performance reductions exceeding 7% after a significant dust event. While February storms were mitigated by natural rainfall, April storms lacked this cleaning mechanism, leading to higher levels of dust accumulation and more pronounced soiling losses.

Using PVRADAR’s simulation tools, the study quantified and visualized the impact of dust accumulation on PV panel performance. These results reinforced the importance of targeted cleaning strategies, particularly in regions with low rainfall and frequent dust events, to minimize performance losses.

Optimized cleaning strategies are crucial for a PV-Reliant future

This study highlights the importance of understanding the effects of Saharan dust storms on PV performance as Europe increases its reliance on solar energy. These findings demonstrate the potential for significant reductions in irradiance and electricity generation due to these events. To address these challenges, a flexible and adaptive energy mix is crucial for maintaining grid stability. Preventive measures, such as optimized cleaning strategies, are essential to ensure the long-term resilience of solar infrastructure.

This research provides valuable insights into the effects of environmental factors on PV performance and contributes to developing strategies for maintaining efficiency and reliability in the context of changing climate and environmental conditions.