Yagma:With the end of the rainy season approaching, photovoltaic (PV) installations in Burkina Faso are increasingly at risk due to dust accumulation on solar panels. This issue is worsened by drying soils, winds, and sediment deposits left by runoff in stagnant water areas, which can significantly reduce solar electricity production.
According to Burkina Information Agency, runoff carries fine particles that settle in low-lying areas, gutters, around dams, and depressions in the terrain. After the water evaporates, these sediments can be easily disturbed by wind and vehicles, making the transition between the rainy and dry seasons a critical time for solar power plant operators, businesses, households, and public infrastructure managers to remain vigilant.
A scientific study conducted in Burkina Faso by the Laboratory of Thermal and Renewable Energies at Joseph KI-ZERBO University, published in 2025 in the journal Results in Optics, examines the effects of dust on photovoltaic modules' performance in a Sudanese-Sahelian climate. The study, carried out in Yagma, north of Ouagadougou, identified clayey silt-type particles between 2 and 20 micrometers in size, with an average deposition rate of 39,683 grams per square meter per day under the conditions studied.
Dust acts as a partial barrier, reducing the solar radiation reaching the cells, leading to a drop in electrical current and available power. The research reported a 4.1% decrease in the module's maximum power over six days, despite increased solar irradiance. These findings underscore the importance of dust accumulation but are not universally applicable to all installations.
To address this risk, regular inspections and monitoring of electricity production are advised, especially after initial dust episodes. Cleaning methods should be tailored to the degree of soiling and local conditions, with clean air blowing for dry deposits and water cleaning for more stubborn particles. Alternating these methods, when feasible, can minimize water use and maintenance costs.
Maintenance should follow manufacturer guidelines, avoiding abrasive tools or products that might damage surfaces. Caution is advised against walking on modules, cleaning when they are hot, or working on electrical components without qualified personnel. Rainfall does not guarantee thorough cleaning, as fine particles can adhere more strongly to the glass when mixed with moisture.
Preventative maintenance should also consider prevailing winds and proximity to unpaved roads and sediment-prone areas to anticipate fouling. The objective is to maintain the performance of photovoltaic installations sustainably while managing maintenance costs and conserving water, a valuable resource in Burkina Faso.