Project Synopsis

Title: Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System

1. Introduction

Solar panels are widely used as a renewable energy source, but their efficiency reduces by 20–30% due to dust, dirt, bird droppings, and environmental pollutants accumulating on the surface. Manual cleaning is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and not always feasible, especially for large solar farms.

An automated solar panel cleaning system provides a low-cost and efficient solution to maintain panel efficiency. This project proposes designing and fabricating an automated system that uses sensors, motors, and cleaning brushes/water spray to keep solar panels dust-free with minimal human intervention.

2. Problem Statement

Accumulation of dust and dirt reduces solar panel efficiency.
Manual cleaning requires labor, water, and time.
Lack of affordable automated cleaning systems for small-scale and medium-scale users.

3. Objectives

To design an automated cleaning system for solar panels.
To reduce dependency on manual labor and save time.
To ensure maximum solar energy generation by maintaining panel cleanliness.
To implement a cost-effective, water-saving, and eco-friendly design.

4. Methodology

Literature Review – Study existing cleaning systems and limitations.
System Design –
- Microcontroller-based control system.
- DC motor-driven wiper/brush mechanism or water spray.
- Sensor to detect dust accumulation or schedule-based cleaning.
- Optional solar-powered battery for self-operation.
Fabrication – Assemble frame, cleaning mechanism, sensors, and controller.
Testing & Evaluation –
- Compare power output of cleaned vs. uncleaned panels.
- Optimize cleaning cycle for efficiency and water usage.

5. Block Diagram

Solar Panel → Dust Sensor/Timer → Microcontroller → Motor/Brush Mechanism → Cleaned Panel → Improved Efficiency

6. Expected Outcomes

A functional automated cleaning system prototype for solar panels.
Reduction of efficiency loss due to dust by 20–30%.
Low-maintenance, user-friendly, and eco-friendly solution.
Scalable design suitable for both rooftop solar systems and large solar farms.

7. Applications

Rooftop solar power plants (homes, offices, industries).
Large-scale solar farms.
Remote areas where manual cleaning is difficult.
Commercial and institutional solar installations.

8. Tools & Components Required

Microcontroller (Arduino/Raspberry Pi)
DC Motors & Motor Driver Circuit
Wiper Brush / Roller Brush / Nozzle Spray System
Dust Sensors / IR Sensors / Timer Module
Water Tank & Pump (if water spray system used)
Rechargeable Battery (solar charged)
Supporting Frame & Mounting Mechanism

9. Cost Estimation (Approx.)

Microcontroller & Sensors: ₹3,500
Motor & Cleaning Mechanism: ₹4,000
Frame & Mounting: ₹2,500
Battery & Power Supply: ₹2,000
Miscellaneous: ₹1,500
Total Estimated Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹15,000

10. Conclusion

The Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System will provide an innovative, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for maintaining solar panel efficiency. By reducing dust accumulation and ensuring maximum sunlight absorption, this system helps increase the overall power output and supports sustainable energy production.

Saturday, 30 August 2025

Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System