Application of IoT: A Study on Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System

Abstract

In the globe, there are two forms of energy: renewable and non-renewable. Every day, the amount of energy consumed rises. People are shifting to renewable energy as a result of carbon dioxide emissions. Renewable energy sources include solar, wind, and geothermal energy. The sun radiates solar energy, which is potential energy. Solar panels are used to produce power from solar energy. Solar plants are employed in a dusty climate, such as that seen in tropical nations like India. Dust on PV panels reduces the efficiency of the panels' ability to generate power by 50 percent. Cleaning solar panels is necessary because dust decreases the producing power of PV panels by blocking the intensity of light and raising the temperature of the panels. Human resources have traditionally cleaned panels. It's a time-consuming and costly job. Solar panels are also damaged during manual cleaning. The automated system can easily clean it. The automatic solar panel cleaning system has the potential to boost efficiency by 32 percent. PV panels may be cleaned with or without water using this system. With the use of automation and the Internet of Things, it can be fully automated. Cleaning using an automated system consumes less water and is more efficient. With the help of sensors, microcontrollers, and other devices, this machine can work both manually and automatically. It features a horizontal and vertical frame that allows it to clean a number of panels back and forwards. Data on generation and efficiency is monitored via systems. By cleaning the panels on a regular basis, it can increase efficiency by 1.6 to 2.2 percent. The many aspects of cleaning solar panels and the automated solar panel cleaning system are covered in this literature review.