The WOPV Technology
Wind Optimized PV is a passive, physics-based technology designed to reduce long-term soiling losses in photovoltaic modules.
Rather than relying on cleaning, coatings, or operational intervention, WOPV addresses dust accumulation as a design challenge — integrated directly into the module structure.
The core WOPV concept
WOPV integrates elongated, ultra-thin MicroThreads into the front glass of a PV module.
Each MicroThread is a flexible filament manufactured from a durable, UV-stable material and anchored at one end only.When exposed to ambient wind, the free end of each MicroThread undergoes controlled, large-amplitude motion, sweeping above the module surface.
The mechanism is based on continuous, gentle interaction between the MicroThreads and the glass surface.Dust mitigation is achieved through repeated low-force friction that prevents stable dust adhesion, without damaging the glass or affecting module performance.
Why this mechanism prevents dust accumulation
Dust accumulation on PV modules depends on the ability of particles to remain mechanically stable on the surface over time.
The combined effect of continuous macroscopic motion and gentle, repeated contact disrupts this stability before dust layers can consolidate.
As a result, particles may reach the surface, but they do not form persistent adhesion or long-term accumulation.
​
Prevention occurs continuously, as part of the module’s normal exposure to wind — not through episodic cleaning events.
Design and integration principles
WOPV is designed as an integral part of the PV module architecture.
The MicroThreads are positioned and anchored in predefined locations, aligned with existing module geometry and electrical layout, without interfering with optical, electrical, or mechanical performance.
From a manufacturing perspective, WOPV can be implemented either during solar glass production or as a final step in module assembly. In both cases, integration preserves standard module design rules and does not introduce operational dependencies in the field.
From an optical perspective, the MicroThreads occupy less than 1/2000 of the module’s active surface area (≈0.05%). This level of coverage is well below the threshold for measurable optical losses and is offset by the prevention of long-term soiling accumulation.
​
WOPV does not rely on external power, sensors, control systems, or maintenance actions.
Safety & compatibility
​
The WOPV architecture is designed to operate safely as an integrated, passive element of the PV module.
Negligible optical shading
The effective shading introduced by the WOPV structure is on the order of ~1/2000, well below levels associated with hot-spot formation or electrical imbalance.Coating, electronics, and performance integrity
Independent laboratory testing by Fraunhofer found no evidence of damage to standard PV glass coatings, no impact on module electronics, and no degradation in panel performance under the tested conditions.Fire safety and materials
The architecture uses high-quality, stable materials selected for long-term outdoor exposure, with no identified fire or ignition risk under normal PV operating conditions.
What WOPV is — and is not
WOPV is best described as a dynamic, design-level soiling mitigation layer that operates above the module’s existing anti-soiling and anti-reflective coatings.
It does not replace surface coatings. Instead, WOPV complements them by reducing the rate of dust accumulation over time, helping maintain higher energy yield between scheduled cleaning cycles.
WOPV is not a full cleaning solution.
Standard cleaning and maintenance practices remain unchanged.
Conventional cleaning methods — including water-based, manual and mechanical, can be applied directly over WOPV without restriction.By continuously disrupting dust stabilization through wind-driven motion and gentle surface interaction, WOPV limits performance losses that typically develop between cleaning events, without altering operational routines or maintenance strategies.
Technical deep dive
This 36-minute technical session offers an in-depth discussion of Dustoss’ wind-optimized approach to reducing soiling losses in photovoltaic systems.
The session covers key physical principles, long-term field insights, and manufacturing considerations for scalable implementation.
Hosted by Gray B, it is intended for engineering, R&D, and technical leadership teams.
