Optimizing Hybrid Wind–Solar Systems in Barren Land Under Constraints Imposed by Atmospheric Aerosols

Abstract

By using a solar photovoltaic (PV) performance model and applying it to global data from 2000 to 2022, we demonstrated that although the net impact of aerosols on power generation was negative, this loss was almost entirely driven by soiling of panel surfaces and could be mitigated by developing an appropriate cleaning regime. In contrast, aerosol scattering of light under certain atmospheric conditions can locally increase power generation and stabilize output. These insights highlight the necessity of systematic, regionally tailored panel‐cleaning protocols—particularly for tracking systems, which are most susceptible to aerosol deposition. Moreover, across regions with sufficient wind resources, optimally configured wind–solar systems partially compensated for aerosol‐related reductions in solar performance, reducing system instability by more than 51% and increasing capacity factor by 97%. Finally, we found that deploying hybrid systems in barren land is ecologically viable if they are paired with adaptive cleaning regimens: in regions with high aerosol loads, timely panel cleaning can yield better cost–benefit returns than investments in advanced tracking technology. Together, these findings clarify both the promises and pitfalls of hybrid sources of renewable energy in areas threatened by aerosol deposition, and provide a clear roadmap for maximizing their sustainable deployment.