How to detect surface dust on solar photovoltaic panels?

At present, the main methods for detecting surface dust on solar photovoltaic panels include object detection, image segmentation and instance segmentation, super-resolution image generation, multispectral and thermal infrared imaging, and deep learning methods.

Can a waterless cleaning method remove dust from solar panels?

Dust that accumulates on solar panels is a major problem, but washing the panels uses huge amounts of water. MIT engineers have now developed a waterless cleaning method to remove dust on solar installations in water-limited regions, improving overall efficiency. Image courtesy of the researchers.

How to remove dust from PV panels?

Sometimes, special cleaning agents are mixed with high-pressure water to enhance dust removal efficiency , , . Additionally, the presence of water helps cool the PV panels , . However, this method is not suitable for semi-arid and arid regions facing severe water scarcity .

How does a dust-free solar panel work?

When the weight measured exceeds a threshold, the Arduino controller commands the electrostatic precipitator to clean the dust. Regular intervals of cleaning ensure a dust-free panel, enhancing the efficiency of the PV panels in utilizing solar energy. Marquez et al. developed a novel monitoring system for detecting dust on PV panel surfaces.

Does dust affect the performance of PV panels and cleaning methods?

Many researchers have reviewed the effects of dust on the performance of PV panels and cleaning methods, but their coverage is narrow and lacks more in-depth summarization, comparison, and critique of key quantitative results.

How do we remove dust from solar panels?

Ref (Alqatari et al., 2015). developed a model to study the output of three techniques used to remove dust from PV. The techniques were electrodynamic screens, super hydrophobic nano-coatings and air-blowing mechanisms. Researchers used meteorological data from six locations in Saudi Arabia.