Effect of Sandstorms on PV Arrays and Components

Photovoltaic (PV) systems deployed in desert areas are exposed to wind-blown particles during most of their life. Here, I describe the characteristics of wind-blown particles and with their effect on exposed surfaces. I provide insights for use in array design to minimize the effects of exposure and keep system costs as low as possible. Finally, I present some data describing the exposure ofpolymer-encapsulated arrays to both field and laboratory wind-blown sand environments, and I present evidence that an encapsulated or 'soft' array has a higher abrasion resistance and, therefore, a much higher probability of surviving a severe sand environment.