India is a promising market for solar energy due to its abundant sunlight. But a common question among potential users is: Are solar panels efficient in cloudy and dusty environments? The answer is yes, but with a few crucial considerations. Here is a look at how solar panels perform under such conditions and how they can be optimized to maximize their efficiency.

Solar Panels on Cloudy Days: Do They Still Generate Power?

It is true that solar panels generate electricity even when it is cloudy
Days. Although sunlight intensity is reduced due to cloud cover,
Modern solar PV systems are designed to capture diffused sunlight—the
Sunlight that is scattered in the atmosphere even when the sun isn’t directly
Visible.

• On a cloudy day, solar panels typically operate at 10% to 25% of their
  Capacity,Capacity, depending on the thickness of the clouds.

• In regions like Kerala, which experience monsoons and overcast days, high-quality solar panels with advanced cell technology (like PERC, bi-facial, or
  Half-cutting can still ensure a decent output.

Impact of dust on solar panel efficiency

Dust accumulation is more common in dry and arid regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Maharashtra. Even in cities, pollution and construction activities contribute to dusty conditions.

• Layers of dust can reduce solar efficiency by 5% to 15%, and in
  Severe cases, up to 30%.

• The loss is gradual and often goes unnoticed until production starts dropping
  Significantly.

Solutions and Tips to Overcome Cloudy and Dusty
Challenges

1. Choose High-Efficiency Panels

• Bifacial and monocrystalline panels work best in diffused light.

• Panels with an anti-soiling coating help reduce dust buildup.

2. Tilt Angle and Installation Design

• The correct tilt helps natural rainwater clean off dust.

• A customized structure ensures maximum exposure during different seasons.

3. Regular cleaning and maintenance

• Monthly cleaning in dusty areas is a must.

• Bodhie Solar provides Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) with scheduled
  Visits and performance tracking.

4. Remote monitoring systems.

• Identify drops in performance instantly using real-time monitoring apps.

5. Location-Based Planning

• Systems : In coastal or humid areas, they are designed to tackle corrosion and salt mist.

• Dust-prone Systems : Are equipped with high-rated IP junction boxes and
  Cleaning accessible.

Bodhie Solar’s Expertise in Diverse Conditions

Across Kerala and the surrounding states, Bodhie Solar has successfully installed over 2000 KWp of rooftop solar systems. From cloudy coastal towns to dusty inland cities. Throughout the year, our expert design and service team ensures optimal performance by:

• Recommending
  MNRE-compliant systems.

• Using
  Solis or Enphase inverters for precise performance tracking.

• Offering
  Free consultation to assess your site’s conditions.

The bottom line

While cloudy and dusty conditions do have some impacts on solar panel efficiency, they are not a deal breaker.deal breaker. With proper planning, regular maintenance, and the right technology, solar systems can thrive in any part of India. And with government subsidies, EMI-based Financing, and professional EPC services from companies like Bodhie Solar, now is the perfect time to switch to solar.

Interested in a site survey or a free quote?
Contact Bodhie Solar today and let us help you power your home or business
Sustainably.