Solar Panel Cleaner

Solar Panel Cleaner

Mr. Vishwajeet S. Patil 1, Mr. Pranav D.Yadav2, Mr. Chiranjiv S. Gholap3, Mr. Abhinandan A. Patil4

Ms. Parag D.Kodag5

Electrical Engineering Department, Sanjay Ghodawat Institute, Atigre, India

Abstract:
Solar energy is one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly sources of power, with solar panels playing a crucial role in harnessing this energy. However, the efficiency of solar panels is greatly affected by the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other environmental contaminants on their surface. Over time, this buildup reduces the amount of sunlight absorbed by the photovoltaic cells, leading to decreased energy output. To address this issue, an automated solar panel cleaning system has been developed to maintain the cleanliness of the panels without manual intervention. This project utilizes an Arduino Uno R3 microcontroller, sensors to detect dust levels, and motorized cleaning mechanisms to perform timely maintenance. In some designs, a water spray system is also integrated to remove stubborn dirt. The entire setup is designed to be energy-efficient, cost-effective, and capable of operating under various weather conditions. By automating the cleaning process, this system not only enhances the performance of solar panels but also extends their operational life. This innovation is particularly useful in regions with high dust accumulation or limited access to manual labor. The project demonstrates a practical solution to maximize solar energy utilization while minimizing human effort and maintenance costs.

Keywords: Arduino Uno R3, DC motor, Brush mechanism, Panel surface cleaning