A novel technique for cleaning PV panels using antistatic coating with a mechanical vibrator

Many types of coatings are available in the market, which prevent the adhesion of dust to the surface of PV panels, but do not repel the dust off the surface of the panel. The objective of this research is to experimentally investigate the influence of using a nano-coating for PV panels together with an automated mechanical vibrator on the electrical performance of the panel. The function of the vibrator is to shake the panel twice daily, such that the dust on the panel can fall off by gravity. Three PV panels are examined where the first panel is with no coatings or vibration and is used as a reference for comparison, the second panel is coated with a nano-coating, while the third panel is coated with a nano-coating and shaken using a mechanical vibrator. It has been found that the accumulation of dust on the surface of solar panels is gradual and increases with time, especially in dry and desert regions, such as Egypt. The results show that the average electrical efficiency of the PV panels with coating and mechanical vibrator has decreased by 12.94% during six weeks of operation, whereas the efficiency of the PV panel with coating dropped by 24.46%. However, the reference panel had a drop in efficiency of 33%. Dust mitigation using coatings is an effective technique in cleaning solar panels, and its performance can be improved if a vibration system is applied. (C) 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.