Solar Panels get installed at an angle. This ensures that the surface of your module receives the maximum sunlight. But it is due to this tilt, that water starts accumulating at the lower corners of the module after cleaning sessions or rainfall.
Once the water evaporates, it leaves behind dirt. And as the cycle repeats, a thick layer of dirt starts forming on the lower edge of the panels.
On the surface, it appears to be a minor issue with an easy solution. Clear away the water and dirt through manual or robotic cleaning. What’s more, this solves the problem to a large extent.
But, even a few millimeters of residual water can go on to impact your power generation.
Let’s understand why that happens and explore a simple yet surprisingly powerful tool that eliminates this problem.
Water Accumulation Lowers Efficiency
Solar cells are connected in a string. A dip in the efficiency of a single solar cell can affect the power output of the entire string.
Studies show that even when 50% of a solar cell gets shaded due to dust accumulation, it can bring down the power production of a three-string module by one-third.
Moreover, a layer of dirt like this will act as a shadow in a solar panel. Over time, a hotspot begins to form, where weak cells start consuming energy from the neighbouring cells rather than producing power.
So what initially started with a small quantity of water, can translate to significant losses in a megawatt-scale plant. It has the power to not only degrade panel performance but also shorten its lifespan and even pose a fire hazard!
But, there is one tool that prevents this problem- Aqua Pi.
Gaining the Lost Output with Aqua-Pi
Image: Aqua Pi is snap fitted to the solar panel frame
Aqua Pi is a simple yet incredibly powerful water drainage clamp that can be attached to the lower edge of a solar panel. The tool uses the principle of surface tension to drain the accumulated water.
Moreover, you do not need professional expertise to install Aqua Pi. Anyone can simply snap-fit the device to the panel frame. Every module requires just two of these devices, installed at a distance of 10 mm from the corner.
Aqua Pi is a product of several iterations and a long testing process. The team worked on multiple prototypes and experimented with different elements before finalizing a design with the best performance and minimal components.
The Made in India product uses Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a high-quality thermoplastic for maximum resilience against harsh weather conditions.
Advantages of Aqua Pi
- Depending on the conditions, the device can boost power output by up to 10%
- ABS makes Aqua Pi resistant to cracks or brittleness and hence suitable for all weather conditions
- It is extremely cost-effective and makes for less than 1% of the price of solar panels.
- It works efficiently throughout the life of the solar panel.
Should You Be Investing in Aqua Pi?
Rains are great for your solar panels. It washes away the dirt and debris from the panel surface and helps them absorb sunlight better.
But, there will always be a possibility of residual water with rain.
Why not invest in a small maintenance tool that removes that possibility altogether?
Aqua Pi can help you save lakhs or even crores in energy costs by improving PV performance. And, it will be a one-time investment too!
About Ornate Solar
Ornate Solar is a leading solar company with 8+ years of experience in the industry and the mission to reimagine the way solar is installed worldwide.
From advanced solar panels, innovative inverter solutions, and high-quality accessories to the unique InRoof that turns panels into the primary roof, we develop and deliver solutions that are modern, reliable, and effective.
If you are exploring a water drainage solution for your solar panel, reach out to us at 011 43536666 to discuss your options.
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