On December 17, 2024, The Electricity Hub interviewed two solar energy professionals, Mr Francis Ebirim, a sales engineer at CeeSolar, and Mr Gwanzuwang Jonah, a project engineer at Havenhill Synergy. They shared essential tips on maintaining solar panels, focusing on Nigeria’s climate challenges.
Dust and Dirt: Major Problems for Solar Panels
Mr Francis Ebirim explained that dust and dirt buildup are common issues in Nigeria. “Dust can reduce solar panel efficiency by 20-40%,” he said. Dust particles block sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic (PV) cells, reducing energy production. Solar panel owners must clean their systems regularly to maintain optimal performance.
Routine cleaning keeps power output high and extends solar panel lifespans. When neglect occurs, dirt shortens the panels’ lifespan and lowers performance. Mr. Ebirim recommended monitoring energy output. If the power drops below the manufacturer’s specifications, especially under regular sunlight, cleaning or maintenance likely needs to happen.
He emphasised that cleaning should occur during low-light periods, such as early morning or late afternoon. “Cleaning panels in bright sunlight causes cracks due to sudden temperature changes,” he explained. Water cools the hot panels too quickly, damaging the glass and reducing efficiency.
Signs of Solar Panel Damage
Mr Ebirim identified several warning signs that point to damage to solar panels:
- Energy Performance Decline: A noticeable drop in energy output signals a problem.
- Physical Damage: Cracks or discolouration on the panels indicate issues that require attention.
- Misalignment: Solar panels that shift or move due to loose fittings must be resecured to avoid further issues.
He encouraged regular checks and energy monitoring to detect these problems early and ensure the system stayed in good condition.
Climate Challenges for Solar Panels in Nigeria
Mr Gwanzuwang Jonah discussed Nigeria’s climate challenges, especially during the dry season. “Dust covers everything, particularly in unpaved roads,” he noted. Dust, bird droppings, and soot accumulate regularly, especially in cities like Port Harcourt. These substances affect solar panels, buildings, shoes, and cars.
While dirt affects the panels’ appearance, the bigger problem is blocked sunlight. “Imagine driving a car with a dirty windscreen,” Mr. Jonah said. Similarly, dust prevents sunlight from reaching the PV cells, which reduces energy production.”
Many clients complain about batteries that fail to charge appropriately. Mr. Jonah explained that simply washing the panels often solves this issue. Regular cleaning keeps dirt from causing performance problems later on.
Risks of Ignoring Maintenance
Both engineers stressed the risks of neglecting solar panel maintenance, which include:
- Decreased Energy Output: Dust and debris reduce battery charging, and clients notice that their batteries no longer last as long.
- Hotspots: Solar panels can overheat in certain areas, causing “hotspots.” Dust, partial shading, or faulty cells often cause these, which increases fire risks.
- Undetected Damage: Without regular maintenance, cracks or broken glass go unnoticed, causing a drop in system performance.
- Battery Degradation: Improper charging weakens batteries, which affects their long-term health.
- Inverter Problems: Inverters may show error codes like “PV Insulation Fault” when maintenance isn’t performed regularly.
- Cable and Clamp Issues: Underground PV cables require periodic insulation testing to ensure safety. Loose clamps can cause panels to blow off during strong winds, causing system damage.
Detecting Underperforming Solar Panels
Mr. Jonah outlined ways to detect underperforming solar panels. Remote monitoring platforms provide an easy way to track energy production. If a system that typically produces 50 kW drops to 20 kW, dirt or debris most likely causes the drop.
For example, when a client’s load requires 20 kW, the system typically generates 50 kW, with the extra 30 kW used to charge the batteries. If the system only produces 20 kW due to dirt buildup, no energy remains to charge the batteries, leading to shorter battery life.
Mr Jonah also recommended checking for inverter error codes or sudden system shutdowns, which could indicate issues with the solar panels.
Cleaning Solar Panels Safely and Effectively
Solar panel cleaning requires care. Mr Ebirim and Mr Jonah discouraged using harsh chemicals, which can stain and damage the glass over time. “Chemicals dissolve glass coatings, reducing efficiency,” Mr. Ebirim noted. He advised using water and a soft cloth or mop for cleaning.
Owners should clean panels during low-light periods to avoid sudden temperature changes. Cleaning in direct sunlight exposes workers to intense heat, which increases the risk of dehydration and exhaustion. Cleaning during more extraordinary times ensures safety for both the panels and workers.
Signs That Need Professional Attention
Certain situations require professional attention. Heavily soiled panels, visible cracks, frequent inverter error messages, or discoloured panels signal deeper issues. Misaligned panels must be resecured, especially on rooftops, where strong winds can cause them to fall off.
Proper solar panel maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends system life. Regular cleaning, monitoring energy output, and addressing issues early prevent significant problems from developing. By following these best practices, solar panel owners in Nigeria can keep their systems running efficiently, even in demanding climates. Mr. Francis Ebirim and Mr. Gwanzuwang Jonah’s expert advice highlights the importance of solar panel care, ensuring long-term energy production and system health.