ABSTRACT

A simple automated module for cleaning the accumulated dust on the solar panel is designed and fabricated. Soiling is one of the main reasons for power conversion losses in PV modules. The design includes provision for cooling the panel by spraying water. Panel is cleaned using a roller brush made of micro-fiber cloth. The cleaning system after cleaning a panel goes to the adjacent panel by moving through a track provided at sides of the panel array. The system is automated using Arduino. Experiments are done on uncleansed panel, dry cleaned panel and wet cleaned panel. Short circuit current and open circuit voltage are measured by connecting solar panel across load to find the output power. An increase in power output of the panel is reported after cleaning the panel using roller brush and water.