Design and implementation of a waterless solar panel cleaning system

Abstract

Manual cleaning of large solar installations is often labor-intensive and time-consuming, primarily due to the accumulation of dust on solar panels, which significantly impairs their efficiency. The study introduces a novel, waterless, cost-effective automatic cleaning system for small solar panels. The rationale behind this innovation stems from the necessity to mitigate efficiency losses caused by dirt and contaminants on solar surfaces. The automated system employs an Arduino microcontroller enhanced with a real-time clock to optimize cleaning schedules based on environmental conditions. The system consists of a two-stage mechanism which includes an ejector blower that produces a strong air jet, complemented by a flexible brush that effectively removes dust as well as sticky dirt. Cleaning intervals are strategically determined to ensure consistent maintenance without manual intervention, thus maximizing energy output. Tests on a 60 W solar panel revealed an impressive average power output increase of 26.23 % following cleaning. This prototype demonstrates the efficacy of the cleaning approach and underscores its potential to alleviate efficiency losses attributed to dust accumulation. Particularly advantageous in arid regions where water conservation is paramount, this automated system enhances energy production and operational efficiency for solar plant operators, promoting sustainable energy practices.