Automated Solar Cleaning System

Universiti Malaya
Socio-Economics Driver
Science & Technology Driver
Technology Readiness Level
7
Intellectual Property
PI2024000995

Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System integrates sensor-based cleaning that triggers based on dust accummulation, thus eliminating eliminating labour cost & reduce the frequency of cleaning, which will also reduce water waste. It also offer a significantly lower cost compared to other solutions (RM3,500 per 10kW). The modular & scalable design can easily be integrated into various solar panel installed in both residential & commercial locations. The protective coating also repel dust post-cleaning, which also reduce the frequency of cleaning & preserve the panel efficiency for longer

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in Malaysia are significantly affected by dust accumulation, which can lead to a reduction in energy output of up to 30%. This performance drop results in an estimated financial loss of RM250 per month for a standard 10kW system. Existing cleaning methods are either manual—requiring costly labour—or rely on expensive robotic or vehicle-mounted systems, making them impractical for widespread use. Additionally, current solutions lack automation, efficient water usage, and integration with real-time monitoring systems. There is a clear need for a cost-effective, automated, and efficient cleaning solution that can be seamlessly integrated into existing solar infrastructure.

The UMTECHVIS project offers an Automated Solar Cleaning System as a smart and efficient solution to the issue of dust accumulation on solar panels. The system is modular, scalable, and gentle, making it suitable for various solar installations. It features sensor-based dust monitoring, which enables data-driven scheduling and automated cleaning triggers. Additionally, it includes a protective coating dispensing mechanism to reduce future dust build-up, and is designed to minimise water usage during cleaning. The system integrates with existing solar infrastructure and operates without human intervention, ensuring consistent panel performance, reduced maintenance costs, and maximised energy output

The innovation of the UMTECHVIS project lies in its fully automated, data-driven solar panel cleaning system that combines multiple advanced features into a single integrated solution. Unlike conventional methods, the system utilises sensor-based dust monitoring to accurately detect when cleaning is needed, triggering the process without human intervention. It also dispenses a protective coating to prevent future dust accumulation, significantly reducing cleaning frequency. Additionally, the system optimises water usage, incorporates real-time monitoring, and is designed to be modular and easily integrated with existing solar setups. This holistic approach sets it apart from manual, robotic, or vehicle-mounted alternatives, making it a cost-effective and intelligent solution for solar panel maintenance

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