Saudi Journal of Engineering and Technology (SJEAT)
Volume-8 | Issue-12 | 293-299
Original Research Article
Design and Construction of an Automatic Solar Panel Cleaning System
Eiche, J. F., Bamidele, O. O, Fadiji, E. A., Mogaji, T. S
Published : Dec. 15, 2023
Abstract
PV panels are installed in an open-spaced setting and then exposed to dust, dirt, and debris which significantly reduce their power output, making regular cleaning essential. Therefore, this research developed an automatic cleaning system for solar panels to enhance their efficiency and performance. The developed system utilizes an Arduino microcontroller, a lead screw mechanism, and a cleaning arm to automate the cleaning process. The system is designed to automatically control the cleaning system wirelessly using a Wi-Fi module that has been integrated on the Arduino board, and when the solar panels require cleaning, it activates the cleaning arm to remove the accumulated dirt. This research project involves the design, development, and implementation of the automatic cleaning system. The components used in the system include a PC817 optocoupler, C815 limit switch, Nodemcu microcontroller, DC wiper motor (12V), screw mechanism, metallic frame, solar panels, and a DC power supply (12V). These components are carefully selected to ensure efficient and reliable operation of the cleaning system. The system performance for both cleaning and dusty panels has been evaluated and it was found that the efficiency for the cleaning system is higher with output power of 53.69W. The developed system can be used to enhance the PV module performance areas where the weather can be classified as dusty and the pollutants are increasing day by day as a result of smokes, industrial work and new building construction.