Efficiency Analysis of Solar-Powered Robotic Cleaning Systems for Large Scale Photovoltaic Plants

Abstract

The efficiency and productivity of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) plants are significantly affected by the accumulation of dust and debris on the solar panels, which can lead to a considerable reduction in power output. Traditional cleaning methods are often labor-intensive, costly, and may not be sustainable for frequent application. The development and implementation of solar-powered robotic cleaning systems present a promising solution to this challenge, offering an automated, efficient, and eco-friendly approach to maintaining the cleanliness of solar panels, thereby optimizing their performance. This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of the efficiency of solar-powered robotic cleaning systems deployed in large-scale PV plants. Through a comparative study of different cleaning technologies and methodologies, including manual cleaning, water-based automated systems, and dry-cleaning robotic systems, this study evaluates the performance, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and return on investment (ROI) of solar-powered robotic cleaners. Our findings indicate that solar-powered robotic cleaning systems significantly enhance the operational efficiency of PV plants by maintaining optimal power output levels, reducing water consumption, and minimizing human labor. The study highlights the technological innovations in robotic cleaning systems, such as smart navigation, adaptive cleaning mechanisms, and energy-efficient designs, contributing to their effectiveness and sustainability.