Assessing the Effects of Dust on Solar Panel Performance: A Comprehensive Review and Future Directions ^†

Abstract

Accumulation of dust on PV panels is a big challenge, especially in dry and semi-arid environments like Morocco, where the number of dust particles in the atmosphere diminishes the efficiency of solar panels severely. The review analyzes 30 recent studies, which provide insight into performance degradation by dust, as well as the search for solutions that mitigate this effect. Results show that dust reduced solar panel efficiency by between 10% and 40% based on environmental conditions, including dust density, composition, and length of exposure. Many technological approaches have been provided for the problem, including autonomous cleaning systems and advanced coatings, yet economic and scalability barriers are still in existence. Also, using AI in predictive maintenance provides good opportunities to optimize solar panel cleaning schedules to enhance energy production. This review concludes with the observation that, going forward, more research on long-term solutions and the development of sustainable and cost-effective cleaning technologies is urgently needed in order to better exploit solar energy in dusty environments.

1. Introduction

Solar energy has continued to gain popularity globally, with ever-increasing installed capacity after the few past decades (Figure 1). This growth has been mainly fostered by the decreasing cost of a variety of photovoltaic technologies and the growing emphasis put on lowering greenhouse gas emissions [1]. National and international initiatives aimed at the promotion of renewable energy usage have also been key to the expansion, particularly in solar-rich countries like Morocco, where large-scale solar developments are being rolled out to meet increased demands for clean energy [2].

Figure 1. Global electricity production in the declared policy scenario (TWh), 2010–2035 [3].

The African continent presents a great opportunity for solar energy development with its huge expanses of cloud-free space. Hence, several countries on that continent have invested huge amounts of cash in photovoltaic systems in a bid to meet their rising electricity needs [4]. However, the challenges posed by the efficiency and sustainability of solar systems, especially due to dust accumulation on solar panels, remain among the main factors that affect the performance of photovoltaic systems. This issue is even more critical in desert and semi-arid environments, where airborne dust may settle on panel surfaces, thereby substantially decreasing energy generation [5]. In Morocco, a country characterized by diverse climates interspersed with stark deserts, this phenomenon has begun to become an area of focus for researchers seeking to enhance solar installation performance. Current research addresses various dimensions of this problem, including the effect of dust composition and accumulation on panel efficiency [6], autonomous cleaning methods [7], and predictive maintenance of solar systems. A review of the selected 30 articles shows that a considerable range of submissions, from in situ experimental studies to predictive numerical simulations, have tried to approach this phenomenon [8]. It was found that dust accumulation has been destroying the performance of the panels by as much as 30%, for example, depending on the environmental conditions and length of the exposure time [9]. Several novel solutions have been proposed, such as the use of autonomous cleaning systems based on electrostatic forces or the integration of sensors that can monitor the dust impact in real time [10]. Hence, the present review aims to assess the findings of the latest studies and propose possible future research directions, primarily revolving around predictive maintenance systems based on artificial intelligence [11] meant to increase the durability and efficiency of solar systems in dusty environments. Moreover, the structure of this review is organized as follows: Section 2 describes the research methodology of the article selection process. Section 3 reported many key findings from the literature on the impacts of dust, technological solutions, and forecasting models, and Section 4 discussed what we know, what the challenges are, and the research gaps. Lastly, Section 5 concludes the paper and suggests future related research. The innovative aspect of this review relates to its synthesis of recent studies, which specifically center on cleaning and maintenance methods using artificial intelligence. This article ties important experimental studies into the technological developments available in cleaning technologies and presents a framework to address future work on sustainable dust management on solar technology, especially in arid settings such as Morocco.

2. Research Methodology

The literature review consisted of a systematic search for articles discussing the effects of dust on solar panel performances. The methodology of our study is shown in Figure 2. The search used the keywords dust accumulation, solar panel, and performance across Scopus, Springer, and Google Scholar. This search generated a total of 111 articles within a wide range of topics such as the effect of dust on solar panels. The duplicates were eliminated through a reference management process using Zotero. After the elimination of duplicates, 95 articles remained for consideration. The articles were reviewed based on their abstracts and keywords, as well as their relevance with the aims of this review, such as those concerning the effect of dust on the performance of solar panels. Articles that do not very specifically deal with this aim are excluded. Subsequent refinement of selection was based on a rigorous criterion: articles were assessed based on their contribution to the understanding of the impact of dust on solar panels. Only articles introducing some originality in their approach and adhering to rigorous standards in terms of methodology and results were retained. At the end of this selection process, 30 articles were found suitable for in-depth analysis within this systematic literature review. These comprise the latest and most relevant research on the effect of dust on the efficiency of solar panels. Various graphic representations were produced to support the discussion of the 30 selected articles, highlighting trends, relationships, and features of our review. Different types of graphs were produced to analyze this. This shows some of the important results, namely the publication-year distribution of articles Figure 3, the distribution by journals Figure 4, and the distribution by keywords in the abstracts as an indicator of the thematic orientation of the studies Figure 5. There is also a word cloud that illustrates the originality of the selected articles that deal with dust accumulation Figure 6. Thus, these figures provide a clearer picture of the current landscape of research into the impact of dust accumulation on solar panels.

Figure 2. Methodology for article selection and review process.

Figure 3. Number of articles published per year.

Figure 4. Distribution of articles by journal.

Figure 5. Distribution of articles by keywords in abstracts.

Figure 6. Word clouds of the selected articles.

3. Results

3.1. Effects of Dust Accumulation on Solar Panel Performance

Dust accumulation on solar panel surfaces affects their efficiency. Studies have shown that the deposition of dust decreases the incident solar radiation on photovoltaic cells, resulting in reduced energy output. In general, dust in the environment will cause a decrease in efficiency of around 20% [5]. There is also a clear relationship between the density of dust deposition on panel surfaces and their power output loss [12]. It is also noteworthy that dust composition is equally important, more so in snow with finer and thus rather sticky particles with a long-life limit on energy production capacity [6,8]. In addition, the presence of climatic conditions such as low wind speeds or relatively high humidity has been cited to favor dust adhesion [7] Laboratory investigations were carried out to determine the effects of dust density accumulation on power output (Figure 7) [13].

Figure 7. Power output versus dust coverage on a lab-scale solar panel. Figure produced by the authors based on results reported in [13].

As shown in Figure 3, there is an overall increase in interest in the topic over the last 5 years, and this further indicates researchers’ increasing concern about the impact of dust on PV efficiency.

Figure 4 shows that the articles selected stem from an array of journals, showing multidisciplinary interest in this issue.

Figure 5 indicates that the most frequently used keywords in the abstracts are “efficiency,” “dust,” and “photovoltaic,” indicating where the focus of current research has been.

Figure 7 supports the statement that power output decreases exponentially as the panel becomes covered in dust and provides clear evidence that the interference from surface soiling substantially reduces light penetration.

3.2. Technological Innovations and Solutions to Minimize Dust Impact

To help overcome the dust’s accumulating effects, several alternative technical solutions have been reported. One is to construct a smart dust removal system based on sensors and compressed air jets, allowing for autonomous dust cleaning without human involvement [7]. Others include engineered hydrophobic and electrostatic coatings used to repel and reduce dust adhesion onto the panel surfaces [8]. An advanced approach for cleaning panels has been suggested in the form of coatings of superhydrophobic nanoparticles, which will automatically clean themselves through light-induced chemical reactions [6]. Besides that, the experimental success of fully autonomous cleaning robots with rotating brushes and water sprays in arid environments has been reported [12]. Such technological novelties offer excellent prospects for improving the efficiency of solar power generation while lowering maintenance costs.

3.3. Predictive Approaches and Optimization of Solar Panel Maintenance

Optimization of solar panel maintenance is based on predictive approaches drawn from data analysis. Artificial intelligence and machine learning support the prediction of dust accumulation and the active planning of cleaning interventions. Some studies call for embedding smart sensors within solar panels to provide real-time monitoring of performance degradation and maintenance alerts [14]. Using predictive models with deep learning optimizes cleaning frequency and energy efficiency [6]. Further, researchers have suggested a hybrid system based on drone surveillance and satellite data analysis to identify priority areas for maintenance [6,15]. Such advances help diminish energy loss while also adding to the solar installations’ life.

3.4. Synthesis of the Articles

Table 1 provides an excellent summary of 30 selected articles that we have strictly analyzed to understand each of the studies in terms of research gaps, objectives, and key findings. The table serves as a clear overview of the selected studies discussing dust accumulation, allowing easy contextual recognition of their contributions.

Table 1. Synthesis of the articles.

Authors	Results	Methods Used	Objectives	Future Research
Toluwani mi Vincent Babalola et al. [5].	The clean panel produced an average power of 245.04 W, compared to 183.20 W for the panel containing artificial dust. The panel containing natural dust produced 216.86 W.	The study uses three identical solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to measure key performance indicators.	The research aims to study the influence of dust accumulation on the efficiency and performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.	Future research could explore the long-term effects of different types of dust (natural or artificial) on the efficiency and performance of photovoltaic solar panels.
Kulsoom Fatima et al. [6].	Dust deposits on photovoltaic (PV) panels significantly hamper the penetration of solar radiation, resulting in reduced electricity generation. Cleaning PV panels every fortnight reduced power losses to 7%.	Cleaning panels every fortnight reduced power losses to 7%, balancing cleaning costs and energy efficiency. Different cleaning methodologies were analyzed to determine the most effective approach.	The study aims to analyze the consequences of dust deposition on photovoltaic systems. Another objective is to determine the optimal cleaning interval to minimize power losses caused by dust.	Research could focus on the long-term effects of different dust compositions on PV panel performance. Investigate advanced cleaning methodologies and technologies that could further reduce power losses due to dust accumulation.
Rongjun Ding et al. [16].	The autonomous dust removal system effectively cleans solar panels covered with sand dust in just 6.6 min using a 15 cm diameter rotating electret generator. The system operates effectively in a wide range of environmental conditions without affecting the long-term performance of the solar panels.	The self-contained dust removal system uses a wind-driven rotating electret generator to create a high-voltage electrostatic field. This field charges dust particles on the insulating glass cover of the panel, allowing them to be repelled.	Research aims to develop an autonomous dust removal system for solar panels. A wind-driven rotating electret generator is used to solve the problem of dust accumulation.	Investigate the long-term durability and maintenance requirements of the autonomous dust collection system. Explore the scalability of wind-driven rotating electret generator technology for large solar panel installations.
Carmen Otilia Rusanesc u et al. [8].	Dust accumulation on the surface of PV panels significantly reduces their efficiency, especially when solar radiation, wind speed, and relative humidity values are high. The importance of PV panel tilt angles in influencing the dust deposition rate.	The study investigated various factors affecting dust accumulation, including atmospheric temperature, solar radiation, wind speed, and relative humidity. Panel tilt angles were analyzed to determine optimal configurations to minimize dust-related efficiency losses.	The study looks at the effect of dust accumulation on the surface of photovoltaic modules. It examines the correlation between tilt angles, solar radiation, wind speed, and relative humidity.	Future research could focus on developing more efficient cleaning methods for PV panels. This could involve exploring automated cleaning systems or environmentally friendly cleaning solutions. Another area of study could be optimizing the tilt angles of PV panels under various environmental conditions.
Zakaria Haddad et al. [12].	The accumulation of dust on the surface of photovoltaic solar panels significantly reduces the passage of solar radiation. The presence of dust also causes an increase in the temperature of the panels, which contributes to a reduction in energy production.	First tests to be carried out during the month of March 2022. Second test in outdoor conditions in M’sila for two months.	The research aims to experimentally study the effect of dust accumulation on the operation of photovoltaic solar panels.	Investigate the long-term effects of different types of dust on the efficiency and performance of various solar photovoltaic panel technologies. Explore the effectiveness of various methods and frequencies for cleaning solar PV panels in dusty environments.
Hussein A. Kazem et al. [9].	Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) modules can result in a significant reduction in power output. Studies indicate a 42–45% reduction at a dust concentration of 50 g/m2. Potential monthly efficiency losses of up to 80% if not cleaned regularly.	Dust accumulation has become a major problem in arid and semi-arid regions due to the high cost of manual cleaning. Studies on the physical properties of dust, such as shape, size, and homogeneity, were conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and microscopic analysis.	The paper aims to review and discuss the effects of dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) modules, including its impact on glass and transparent materials, mirrors, and the overall performance of PV systems.	Future research should focus on the development and standardization of automated cleaning systems for photovoltaic modules. This includes investigating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of various cleaning technologies to mitigate the impact of dust on PV performance.
Min Geun Heo et al. [10].	The study achieved efficiencies of over 90% in solar panel performance at wind speeds of 28 m/s. The research highlights the successful optimization of the RTENG structure, electrode design, and EDS plate dielectric material.	Wind-driven rotating triboelectric nanogenerators (RTENGs) to autonomously power electrodynamic screen (EDS) systems for dust removal.	Research aims to develop an autonomous electrodynamic screen (EDS) system for autonomous dust removal of solar panels. Wind-driven rotating triboelectric nanogenerators (RTENGs) as a sustainable energy source.	Future research could explore the optimization of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) designs to improve the power output at different wind speeds.
Naseem Ahmad et al. [17].	The study found that the performance of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells is negatively affected by the amount of dust on their surface. Tests conducted at different humidity levels (30% to 65%) demonstrated significant changes in efficiency.	Experiments were conducted on different types of dust (sand, soil, and ash) to assess their effects on the output performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) cells. The study also tested the impact of relative humidity on the performance of the PV cells.	Research aims to identify and analyze environmental parameters, particularly dust and humidity, that adversely affect the performance and efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells.	Future research could focus on developing advanced cleaning technologies or coatings for photovoltaic (PV) solar cells.
Maison Hussein Omar et al. [4].	The proposed AI-powered wind turbine-driven air–water harvester can produce more than two liters of water per day while consuming a maximum of 100 W of energy. It could be used to clean PV panels in remote and water-stressed areas.	The air–water recuperator is powered by a wind turbine and equipped with artificial intelligence. It operates in three different modes depending on the amount of dust on the surface of the solar panel. The system is designed to efficiently produce water to clean the panels.	The air–water recuperator is powered by a wind turbine and activated by artificial intelligence. The system is designed to operate in three different modes depending on the dust levels on the surface of the solar panel.	Future research could focus on optimizing the artificial intelligence algorithms used in the air–water collector to improve its efficiency.
Abdellah Asbayou et al. [2].	The optical transmittance of the front glass of the PV panel is significantly influenced by the nature and density of the dust. The reduction in particle size leads to a greater reduction in light transmission and, consequently, in the efficiency of the solar panels.	The study used scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to analyze dust collected at two sites in Agadir, Morocco. Experiments were conducted to assess the effects of soiling on the performance of a photovoltaic panel.	The research aims to study the effects of dust fouling on the performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels by analyzing dust collected from two different sites in Agadir, Morocco.	Future research could focus on the long-term effects of different types of dust on solar panel efficiency. Studying the effectiveness of different solar panel cleaning methods could provide insights into optimizing maintenance practices.
Hussam M. Almukhta r et al. [1].	The paper highlights the significant impact of dust characteristics on the performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems. It highlights the need for further research on dust properties such as thermal conductivity and emissivity.	The free-falling dust method is a typical approach to quantify the influence of dust deposition on photovoltaic performance. A solar simulator is a device that creates a regulated light source to simulate the sun for indoor research.	The paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the impact of dust characteristics on photovoltaic (PV) systems. This analysis aims to better understand how dust accumulation affects PV performance.	Further research is needed to study the impact of different types and amounts of dust on photovoltaic (PV) systems. This includes developing different parameters to accurately predict the transmission reduction for different types of dust.
Haneen Abuzaid et al. [18].	The study highlights the significant negative impact of dust accumulation on PV panel performance, particularly in hot and arid regions. The study identifies research gaps, including the need for dynamic optimization models.	The study reviews various PV panel cleaning techniques and programs. It highlights the importance of modeling dust accumulation along with other environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed.	The study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the impact of dust accumulation on the performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels.	There is a need for appropriate dynamic optimization models for cleaning schedules. Further research is needed to develop more advanced machine and deep learning models.
Gowtham Vedulla et al. [19].	Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) solar panels significantly reduces their efficiency by obstructing solar radiation. The study highlights the need to study dust characteristics, such as the type, size, and shape, in order to develop effective solutions to maintain optimal PV performance.	The paper discusses the use of a robotic arm system to efficiently clean the surface of the photovoltaic module. Different self-cleaning coatings on the cover glass of solar cells were experimentally explored.	The paper aims to study the characteristics of dust accumulation on solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. It aims to develop specific solutions to efficiently harness solar energy.	Discovery of specific characteristics of dust particles, including their type, size and shape, as well as the impact of weather elements on the performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Abhishek Tripathi et al. [20].	The zero-resistance current of the solar photovoltaic (PV) panel decreased by up to 49.01% due to the presence of small dust particles. In addition, there was a significant reduction of nearly 40% in the penetration of sunlight on the surface of the PV panels	The research was conducted with a test device designed to inspect the behavior of the PV panel when covered with dust particles. The experimental setup included a 1 m high stand with a flat edge to hold the panel horizontally and a 20 W polycrystalline PV solar panel mounted on a flat frame	The study aims to use experimental and machine learning approaches to predict the power output of solar photovoltaic panels.	Future research could focus on analyzing the frequency of dust cleaning from solar photovoltaic (PV) panel surfaces. This would help determine optimal cleaning schedules to maintain panel efficiency.
Saman Sarkawt Jaafar et al. [21].	A non-uniform distribution of pollutant dust can lead to a significant reduction in output power. Increasing the tilt angle of the PV panel can improve the output power, effectively doubling it, except in the case of toner dust.	The experimental setup involved a single photovoltaic (PV) panel producing 15 W of energy. Five different dust samples (toner, soil, cement, gypsum, and sand) were applied to evaluate their impact on the output power.	Research aims to quantitatively determine the impact of dust deposition on the power generation efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels. The study aims to investigate the relationship between the non-uniform distribution of pollutant dust and the resulting power reduction.	Future research should focus on developing a model that accounts for the non-uniform distribution of dust pollutants on PV panels. This would improve the accuracy of the experimental results and provide a better understanding of the different extinction coefficients at different points on the PV panel.
Rajni Saini et al. [22].	Dust has a significant impact on the performance of solar panels, especially in hot and dusty areas. Modern cleaning techniques for photovoltaic modules can improve efficiency.	The authors recommend the adoption of a modern cleaning technique for photovoltaic (PV) modules. The technique can be used outside the PV modules, thus improving maintenance efficiency.	The main objective of the review article is to assess the impact of dust particles on the performance of solar panels, especially in hot and dusty environments. The article aims to update the contributions of researchers from 2015 to 2020 regarding the effects of dust.	Future research could focus on developing and optimizing modern cleaning techniques for photovoltaic modules. Studying the long-term effects of different types of dust particles on solar panel performance in different geographical areas could provide valuable information.
Mounir Abraim et al. [23].	The soiling effect on concentrated solar power (CSP) mirrors results in an annual average soiling rate of −1.18% per day. The efficiency loss due to soiling is more pronounced during extreme weather events, such as red rains.	The study used real-time soiling sensors to measure the effect of soiling on concentrated solar power (CSP) and photovoltaic (PV) technologies. A well-described methodology was developed to process the raw data collected.	The study aims to perform a simultaneous and long-term comparative analysis of the effect of soiling on concentrated solar power and photovoltaic technologies.	Research on the long-term effects of extreme weather events, such as dust storms and heavy rainfall, on the efficiency of CSP and PV technologies. Exploration of advanced cleaning techniques and technologies that can mitigate the effects of soiling on solar collectors.
Reham Kamal et al. [24].	Dust accumulation on a PV module resulted in a significant decrease in incident solar radiation. A reduction of 68% of the initial radiation due to dust, resulting in a 31% decrease in the maximum output power.	Computer code to model the propagation of incident solar radiation through the layers of a dusty photovoltaic module. This method involves calculating the reflectance and transmittance at the interfaces between these layers.	The paper aims to evaluate the current–voltage and supply voltage characteristics of a photovoltaic (PV) module influenced by dust accumulation.	Future research could focus on developing more advanced models that incorporate a wider range of environmental factors. This could lead to the design of self-cleaning surfaces or coatings that minimize dust accumulation.
István Bodnár et al. [25].	Research on a 10,044 MWp solar power plant with operational problems revealed that pollution from nearby industrial and conventional power plants leads to surface dirt deposits on the solar panels.	The paper used on-site thermal imaging of the solar power plant to assess the condition of the panels. This method identified thermal anomalies that could indicate overheating or inefficiency.	The solar power plant is to be inspected to identify the cause of operational issues. Investigate the impact of pollution from industrial and conventional power plants on the performance of solar panels.	Future research should focus on conducting new laboratory thermal imaging studies. This will help develop more effective maintenance strategies to mitigate the impact of contamination and operational issues.
Shing-Lih Wu et al. [26].	Wind speed significantly affects dust deposition on solar panels. Wind speeds above 5 m/s effectively reduce the number of dust particles on the surface. In contrast, wind speeds of 1 and 3m/s had no significant impact on dust accumulation.	The paper used the discrete element method (DEM) to establish a mechanical model of contact between dust particles and the surface of solar panels. The model considered a uniform distribution of spherical dust particles of random sizes.	The main objective of the research is to analyze the distribution of dust on the surface of solar panels over time.	Future research could focus on implementing automated measurement techniques to accurately represent the transmittance of solar panels, thereby improving the understanding of how dust accumulation affects their efficiency.
Abubaker Younis et al. [27].	The study demonstrates the impact of dust accumulation on the performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules. It highlights the negative effects of dirt on energy production.	A short-circuit current dust coefficient was developed to represent the effect of dirt under predefined environmental conditions and varying amounts of dust.	The study aims to develop an empirical coefficient, called the short-circuit current dust coefficient, which will quantify the impact of dirt on photovoltaic performance.	–
Arjyadhara Pradhan et al. [28].	The performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels deteriorates significantly with increasing dust deposition. The results indicated that dusty panels produced lower output voltage and current than clean panels.	A real-time experiment was conducted using two PV modules: one in a clean state and the other in a dusty state. The study calculated three main parameters for each external factor affecting PV modules: the maximum power, module efficiency, and fill factor.	Research aims to analyze the impact of dust deposition on the performance of photovoltaic panels. The study also aims to design an efficient solar dust cleaning and cooling system.	Future research could focus on developing more advanced automated cleaning systems for PV panels. This could include exploring the use of ionic surfactants or automated sprayers.
Mohammad Istiaque Hossain et al. [29].	Dust accumulation can reach 1% per day in the Middle East and North Africa. Dust-control coatings could be a better alternative to mechanical cleaning.	The paper discusses the development and application of soil-repellent coatings for photovoltaic (PV) panels in desert environments. The paper reviews various techniques and materials to mitigate soiling problems of PV panels.	The paper aims to critically review the different anti-fouling technologies used to mitigate the problem of photovoltaic panel fouling. The effectiveness of different coatings and their suitability depend on climatic conditions and geographical location, particularly in desert environments such as the MENA region	There is a need to develop multifunctional coatings that combine antifouling and antireflective properties, as current market offerings are limited. Research should focus on creating highly transparent, durable, non-toxic coatings with self-cleaning characteristics.
Muhammad Tamoor et al. [30].	The study found that the concentration of airborne particles (PM 10 and PM 2.5) exceeded the permissible limits at all selected sites in the Sargodha region. The accumulation of particulate matter layers on the surface of the PV module resulted in reduced power generation.	Two photovoltaic systems were installed at a site with a higher particulate concentration. One system was cleaned regularly, while the other remained dusty. The performance of both systems was measured over a period of four months.	The main objective of the study is to investigate the impact of airborne particles (PM 10 and PM 2.5) on the performance of photovoltaic systems in the Sargodha region. Research aims to analyze the concentration, chemical composition, and accumulation of particles.	Future research could focus on the long-term effects of different levels of airborne particles (PM 10 and PM 2.5) on the performance and longevity of PV systems.
Miqdam T. Chaichan et al. [31].	Solar radiation intensity decreased by 54.5%, and air temperature dropped by 21.09%. There was a significant increase in ultrafine aerosol particles. Practical measurements indicated a deterioration in the performance of photovoltaic modules.	A comprehensive study of wind movement and its sources affecting Baghdad was conducted. Practical experiments were conducted during a severe dust storm from April 1 to 12, 2022.	The study aims to conduct a comprehensive examination of wind motion and its sources. It aims to empirically study the impact of dust storms on solar radiation intensity and photovoltaic module performance.	Future research could focus on developing more effective cleaning methods for PV modules during and after dust storms. Investigating alternative cleaning technologies or materials that can minimize dust accumulation could improve the efficiency of solar energy systems.
Gowtham Vedulla et al. [19].	Cement caused a power loss of 0.067%, while brick, white cement, fly ash, and coal caused power losses of 0.190%, 0.163%, 0.164%, and 0.177%, respectively. A higher tilt angle minimizes dust retention and maximizes the irradiance incident on the panel.	An experimental system was set up with a photovoltaic module placed under artificial illumination from 16 electric lamps. The experiment consisted of spreading dust particles with a constant weight of 10 g and different irradiance values on a flour sieve.	The study aims to study the impact of different types of dust particles on the power loss and efficiency reduction of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.	Future research should focus on analyzing the performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in outdoor environments. Studying the chemical composition of different outdoor dust particles will provide a better understanding of how these variations influence the power loss and efficiency reduction.
Zhaohui Zhang et al. [32].	The study established that the composition and size of dust particles deposited on the photovoltaic modules were constant in different areas. The proposed monitoring model for dust deposition achieved an accuracy of 94% in reflecting the degree of dust accumulation.	The solar photovoltaic power plant is in the Kubuqi Desert. Analysis of the composition and size characteristics of dust collected by a solar photvoltaic plant. Establishing relationships between dust density and solar cell output parameters.	The research aims to accurately assess the characteristics of dust deposition on photovoltaic modules in order to improve power generation forecasts and establish effective cleaning cycles.	Future research could focus on the long-term effects of dust composition and particle size on the efficiency of solar PV modules.
Benyouness Raillani et al. [33].	The dirt rate can reduce monthly electricity production by an average of 14.08% for solar tower (ST) technology and 15.615% for linear Fresnel reflector (LFR) technology. ST technology has better technical and economic performance compared to LFR technology.	The paper uses experimental methods to study the cleanliness of a square mirror in the climatic conditions of eastern Morocco. It uses numerical simulations to analyze the experimental results.	Research aims to experimentally study the cleanliness of a square mirror in the climatic conditions of eastern Morocco. The study aims to use the experimental results in simulations to assess energy losses in large solar power plants.	Future research could focus on developing more efficient cleaning methods or technologies for solar mirrors to minimize optical losses through fouling. A future study could include a comprehensive analysis of the long-term economic impacts of fouling on different solar technologies.
Mahdi Sarhan et al. [34].	The study analyzes the effect of dust on solar panel efficiency by comparing clean and dusty panels. An automated water cleaning system was developed to improve performance and maintain efficiency cost-effectively.	An automated closed-loop water system was designed and implemented to clean solar panels, improving their efficiency by removing dust accumulation. The study compared the performance of two solar panels, one clean and one dusty, to analyze the effect of dust on solar cell efficiency.	The primary objective of the research is to study the impact of dust on solar cell performance and efficiency by comparing clean and dusty solar panels, each with 12 cells. Another goal is to design and implement a cost-effective automated closed-loop water system to clean the panels, enhancing efficiency and addressing the challenge of maintaining high and stable performance in solar energy systems.	Future research may focus on cost-effective solar cell development and exploring alternative cleaning systems or materials to reduce dust accumulation, improving panel performance and longevity.

4. Discussion

From the review of 30 selected articles, many recent trends do indicate that dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) panels leads to substantial energy efficiency reductions of 10% to 40%, depending on the environment and climate [5,6,7]. There are studies emphasizing that particle density, the composition of dust, and duration of exposure are the primary factors behind this degradation [8,12]. However, thus far, limited in-depth analyses have examined the long-term influence of this deposition and the cleaning efficiency of current methods [11,33]. Recent studies have proposed many strategies for reducing this impact: self-cleaning systems based on hydrophobic or electrostatic coatings, as well as robots [4]. These approaches hold promise but face economic and technical barriers to large-scale adoption. Some studies mention that traditional cleaning techniques, such as washing with water or mechanical brushing, while effective in the short run, may, however, lead to increased wear on panels over the long run [35]. So, focus on highly economical and sustainable cleaning approaches, intertwined with understanding the adverse effects from varying climatic conditions on PV panel performance, should be enhanced in future studies [36]. Further investigations into the interaction of dust particles with conductors that promote solar photovoltaic effectiveness will no doubt impact future studies. In conclusion, the studies reviewed confirm and restate the relevance of this challenge and the continuing need for innovation in optimizing the conversion of solar energy. In conclusion, the review of the literature analyzed underscores the seriousness of the PV panel fouling issue and demonstrates an urgent need for more effective solutions to achieve the best energy production ends. Additional studies in the area of self-cleaning systems and the optimization of cleaning techniques should thereby be envisaged to offer some tantalizing prospects in pursuing the energy efficiency of photovoltaic installations. The literature review provided several viable research practices for minimizing and forecasting dust accumulation on PV panels, for example, hydrophobic and electrostatic coatings to deter dust adhesion, autonomous robotic cleaning solutions, and AI-enabled predictive maintenance models employing smart sensors and satellite/drone monitoring. Of these practices, AI scheduling and real-time monitoring show the greatest potential and applicability towards dusty environments.

5. Conclusions

The build-up of dust on the photovoltaic panels poses challenging issues, especially in arid and semi-arid regions such as Morocco. The review discussed the quest for 30 recent articles that indicate significant effects of dust on performance, such as those that caused efficiency reductions as huge as 40% depending on a range of factors like density, composition, and duration of exposure. Several technological alternatives have been considered including autonomous cleaning systems and advanced anti-dust coatings. Nevertheless, there are still the remaining issues of expense and feasibility for large-scale implementation. In addition, AI’s involvement in predictive maintenance shows great potential in performance optimization with respect to cleaning strategies while maximizing energy production. Future studies need to focus on the development of clear-sighted, sustainable options that are economically viable within the environmental and structural constraints of solar installations. This multi-disciplinary approach with inputs from materials physics, artificial intelligence, and optimization of energy systems is all important for addressing these issues and maximally optimizing solar energy in dusty regions.