INSTALLED SOLAR PANEL PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT: DUST CLEANING ROBOT
Dirt and dust accumulation on the surface of the solar panel can reduce the amount of solar energy that can be absorbed and converted to electricity, hence reducing its efficiency. To increase the efficiency of the solar cells, the solar panel must be kept clean at all times, so as to provide a wide surface area for absorption of energy from the sun. This paper explores the use of dust sensor, rotating cylindrical brush, which is driven by DC motor, and microcontroller programmed for automatic and reliable cleaning of the solar panel to reduce the effect of dirt and dust accumulation. It proposes to develop a prototype solar panel cleaning system, which can move front and back across the surface of the solar panel. Water is the solvent used during the cleaning process. The performance of the solar is assessed for two situations: dust and no-dust. Comparison of the solar panel performances is made in order to gauge the working of the robot cleaning system.
Authors : Audu, A. I. and Hena, A. K.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 7(2) Date Uploaded : 25th February 2022