Development of an Arduino-controlled brush-based self-cleaning photovoltaic system

Rashid, Mohd Syafiq Zulfadhli (2025) Development of an Arduino-controlled brush-based self-cleaning photovoltaic system. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) panels significantly reduces their efficiency by obstructing sunlight and hindering energy conversion. Addressing the critical need to maintain optimal performance, this project aims to develop an automated cleaning system to mitigate the issue of dust and dirt coverage on solar panels. The prototype involves designing a self-cleaning mechanism that employs advanced technologies, including mechanical brush, rain sensors, and timers, to initiate regular cleaning cycles. The rain sensor detects natural precipitation, pausing the cleaning process during rain to conserve resources, while the timer ensures periodic activation of the wipers to remove accumulated dust and debris. This system is engineered to operate autonomously, reducing the need for manual maintenance and ensuring continuous, effective cleaning. Based on the analysis of solar panel performance before and after cleaning, using flour as a simulated dust, power output dropped by 40% on average under sunny conditions and 25% under cloudy conditions. Post-cleaning, efficiency improved to near original levels, with power restored by 90-95%. Meanwhile for sand-based cleanliness benchmarks, power output dropped by 50% at fully dirtiness level but was restored to over 95% of baseline levels after the second cleaning cycle. These results confirm the high effectiveness of the automated cleaning mechanism in mitigating soiling impacts. The automated system operates autonomously, reducing manual maintenance and ensuring continuous, effective cleaning. It significantly enhances panel efficiency by minimizing dust accumulation, thereby improving the performance and longevity of solar PV systems. This innovation makes solar energy more reliable and cost-effective, particularly in dust-prone regions, promising to advance the viability of solar power as a sustainable energy source.

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