Design and Development of Smart IoT-based Solar Panel Cleaning System

Abstract

The efficiency of power generation in solar panels is reduced due to significant dust accumulation and bird feces. The output power of a solar system is influenced by the light intensity hitting it; therefore, when these panels are used in a dusty setting, a small amount of dust accumulates on the solar panel, attempting to diminish its efficiency and output. Cleaning a solar panel by hand is challenging and requires a lot of time. Thus, a proper cleaning system for the panel can prevent this issue. This research proposes a brush-oriented automated system utilizing IoT technology for the maintenance of solar panels. The system is controlled using a microcontroller and an Android device. The suggested system enables automatic tracking of solar light through a light intensity diode, aligning the panel accordingly. This technique will lead to increased output power. Suitable sensors are used for detecting the dust, and this arrangement is connected to the controller. It offers a higher integrity, consistency, cost-effective and scalable solution for the elimination of dust and specks. The amount of labour required to clean solar panels is also reduced by this technology.