Optimal cleaning schedule in solar PV using the biography-based helianthus optimization enabled coupled deep network

Abstract

The research aims to develop a system that determines the optimal intervals for cleaning solar PV panels to maximize their efficiency and minimize power loss due to dust accumulation. The research utilizes data related to daily solar photovoltaic tariff rates, power generation, and conditions of dust accumulation on PV panels. To monitor the performance of PV panels, the research involves forecasting power generation. If the power generation falls below a predefined threshold, it indicates a need for cleaning. Dust particle loss conditions are analyzed using an optimized Support Vector Machine (SVM) coupled with a Deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model. This model processes PV panel images to identify dusty conditions. The Deep CNN model extracts features from PV panel images, such as color-based statistical features and local gradient patterns. These features are crucial for identifying dusty conditions. The optimal cleaning schedule is determined based on the detection of dust particle loss conditions. Cleaning is initiated when the conditions warrant it. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a deep learning model for both detecting dust particle loss and forecasting power generation. This model is trained using data that includes daily tariff rates and dust particle loss information. The research proposes a new optimization method called “biography-based Helianthus optimization (HBBHO)” specifically designed to suit the characteristics of sunlight. This method is employed to schedule cleaning activities. The proposed approach achieves impressive accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity, with values reaching 96.53% for most metrics, except for specificity, which is at 96.21%.