IOT-BASED AUTOMATED SOLAR PANEL CLEANING SYSTEM USING SMARTPHONES

Abstract: The efficiency of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels is heavily influenced by their cleanliness and can be hampered by a loss of energy production by up to 30% due to dust and environmental debris. Traditional means of keeping PV panels clean are costly and impractical to use on large installations due to time and manpower needed. In this paper, we explore the design and development of an internet of things (IoT) based system capable of remotely controlled automated cleaning of solar panels through smartphones. The project utilizes a ESP32microcontroller alongside dust sensors and light dependent resistors (LDR). Depending on predetermined limits, the system automatically initiates a cleaning process involving a brush and water sprayed from a solenoid valve connected to the microcontroller. Internet connectivity provides a means to monitor the process in real time. Limit switches have been installed in order to control movement and avoid any damage to the equipment. The method is energy and cost effective, and is thus suitable both for household and industrial installations.

Keywords: Solar Panel Cleaning, Internet of Things (IoT), ESP32, Dust Sensor, LDR Sensor, Automated Cleaning System, Smart Monitoring, Renewable Energy, Motorized Brush, Water Spray System.