Smart Dust Removal System for Solar Panel by using Programmable Logic Controller

The increasing reliance on solar power systems as a sustainable and renewable energy source necessitates maintaining optimal performance, which can be hindered by dust and debris accumulation on solar panels. This research study explores the development and implementation of a Solar Panel Cleaning System by using Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) technology. The study focuses on the design, construction, and integration of an automated cleaning mechanism controlled by a PLC, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of solar panels. Employing sensors to trigger the PLC, the proposed system initiates a cleaning process using mechanical tools like brushes or wipers combined with water cleaning agents, ensuring effective dirt removal without damaging the panels. This research study highlights the significance of PLC-based automation in improving solar PV system performance and offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution to mitigate efficiency losses due to dirt accumulation. The findings hold particular relevance for regions like India, where energy shortages are prevalent, highlighting the crucial role of renewable energy sources in meeting the country’s energy demands and enhancing overall energy security. The drawbacks of the current solar panel cleaning technologies, including their inefficiency, the dangers associated with manual labour, and their uneven cleaning performance. A brief discussion of recent methods will be given, highlighting their drawbacks before moving on to the suggested goal. The integrated PLC in the proposed solar panel cleaning system automates the maintenance procedure to guarantee optimal performance from the solar panels. The inputs from different sensors that track the state of the cleaning mechanism and the surrounding environment are crucial to the operation of the system. The solar panel surfaces are regularly monitored for cleanliness by a dust sensor.