5G/LEO IoT-Based Solar Tracking System and Health Monitring of Photovoltaic Cells

The increasing demand for renewable energy sources has led to a growing reliance on solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, the efficiency of these systems is often hindered by external factors such as temperature variations and the accumulation of dust on solar panels. To address these challenges and optimize solar cell performance, our idea proposes an innovative IoT-based solar tracking system that can monitor critical parameters of a solar energy generation system and relay this information to a mobile application. The designed system utilizes a solar panel to convert solar energy to electric energy and store it in rechargeable batteries, along with a combination of temperature and dust sensors. The temperature sensor continuously monitors the temperature of the panels, while a dust sensor detects dust accumulation on the panels’ surfaces. When the dust sensor detects a significant build-up of dust, the system triggers an auto-cleaning mechanism to remove the dust and restore the panels’ efficiency using a wiper. Additionally, water pipes installed beneath the solar cells act as a cooling mechanism, where a pump circulates water through these pipes to absorb and dissipate heat from the cells’ surface when a high temperature is detected. Furthermore, the system leverages cloud-based solutions and 5G connectivity, supported by Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, to send fault detection signals and real-time updates. This integration ensures reliable communication even in remote areas, enhancing the system’s efficiency and responsiveness. The developed Android mobile application provides real-time updates on temperature, dust levels, battery status, and power generation, enabling users to make informed decisions about energy usage and system maintenance.