What dirties solar panels in Apollo Beach
Salt aerosol
The defining problem here. Salt film builds within weeks, hazes the glass, and rain does not remove it — it dissolves and redeposits it. Untreated, it also accelerates frame and clamp corrosion.
Bird activity
Osprey, gulls and pelicans are constant along the canals. Droppings are acidic, opaque and can shade an entire cell string until removed.
Marine humidity and biological growth
High year-round humidity lets algae and mildew establish along the lower module frame where water sits after dew.
Boat and canal traffic
Exhaust and lift maintenance along the canals add a light oily film that plain water struggles with but pure water handles.