How does dirt affect PV cells?
The amount of dirt that settles on your PV solar panel will depend on its location, but if the panel is tilted at least 15 degrees, after a few weeks, the accumulation of dirt and self-cleaning become constant. If it is allowed to build up, dirt may reduce the power the panel generates by about 10%. If the angle of tilt is low, horizontal glazing bars could trap items that could shade part of the panel. It is best to tilt the panels so as to minimise uneven soiling.