Soiling Loss

Soiling loss is generation lost to dust, bird droppings, and pollution settling on panels — commonly 3–7% in Indian conditions, and far worse near construction sites or on low-tilt panels left uncleaned.

Cleaning every 2–3 weeks (more often in dusty seasons) is the single highest-return O&M activity. Water-efficient and robotic cleaning are standard on large plants; households usually need only a soft mop and plain water at dawn.

Part of the HUM Solar Glossary — 75+ plain-language definitions for India’s solar ecosystem, maintained as a neutral reference. Browse all terms →