Research Project: Enhancing Solar Panel Durability in Harsh Agrivoltaic Environments
Emmanuel Moreno Rabago, a first-year graduate student working with faculty advisor Dr. Ashlie Martini, is investigating solar energy performance in California’s Central Valley. His project focuses on agrivoltaic systems, where solar panels are regularly exposed to dust from farm activity, irrigation, and dry soil.
Using a linear abrasion tester, Emmanuel simulates realistic cleaning conditions with water and abrasive slurry to study how coatings and glass surfaces degrade over time. By incorporating regionally relevant dust samples, his research aims to improve durability and efficiency, supporting more sustainable and long-lasting solar energy solutions for Central Valley farms.