Re-designing and construction of a semi-automated solar panel dusting system

Abstract

Solar energy is the most abundant source of renewable energy. Constant soling and wind storm further reduce the efficiency of production of solar energy because the soil particles accumulate the solar photo voltaic cells and this limits the number of solar radiations striking solar PV cell. Therefore, it is essential to have regular and proper cleaning of panel. In most of the parts the cleaning is done manually. This type of cleaning is not uniform and it may cause health issues to the workers, and also solar Photovoltaic cells are prone to damage. This can be solved by automating the setup solar panel cleaning system with/without water. The aim of this project is to Re-design and construct a solar panel cleaning system for removal of dust to effectively clean the solar panels and increase solar panel efficiency. It will use soft yet powerful cylindrical brush which is rotated by a shaft connected to a motor and also with a squeegee on the other side next to brush to remove water and dirt after the brush has cleaned. In this system, it enhances multiple solar cleaning and it is also movable from one place to another. The project intends to increase the efficiency of solar panel by removing all kinds of dust particles at the Busitema University Solar Plant.