International. A group of researchers in Morocco developed an innovative solar panel cleaning system that uses a rolling transparent film to efficiently remove dust and bird droppings, one of the main factors affecting the performance of photovoltaic installations.

The prototype, built at a total cost of $386, was designed to be easily integrated into existing PV mounting structures and is set to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) features in the future. According to the developers, this is a significant step towards automating solar maintenance in arid environments.

"Future lines of research include applying machine learning to optimize cleaning schedules based on environmental conditions, adopting a digital twin approach to predictive maintenance, and integrating performance-enhancing features," the researchers explained. They further added that "machine learning algorithms will optimize cleaning schedules, while the digital twin approach will enhance predictive maintenance capabilities."

At the core of the design is a transparent, flexible film that enables more than 95% light transmission and withstands temperatures of up to 93°C. In its current version, the film measures 50 × 200 cm, is 2 mm thick and weighs 1.4 kg. This moves continuously over the surface of the panel by means of two motorized axes, while a spiral brush located at the bottom maintains constant contact, applying controlled pressure during cleaning.

To control the movement, the team used a STM32F429 plate, selected for its processing power and efficiency in extreme conditions. The system autonomously activates the motors for 20 seconds each morning, based on humidity and solar radiation levels. The motor that moves the film rotates slowly – one turn per second – while the brush motor reaches six revolutions per second, ensuring a thorough clean.
The cost analysis revealed that electrical components represent 75% of the total value, while the remaining 25% corresponds to mechanical elements. Current and voltage sensors cost $70 each, and a DC-DC converter $122.30. According to estimates, electronic components have a lifespan of between 8 and 12 years under arid conditions.

The tests were carried out on a polycrystalline panel of 48 cm × 35 cm × 1.7 cm, with a maximum power of 17.2 V and 1.17 A under standard conditions, an open circuit voltage of 21.2 V and a short circuit current of 1.28 A, with an operating range between 40 °C and 85 °C.
In the words of the team, "the proposed rolling transparent film cleaning system was compared with existing photovoltaic cleaning technologies to assess its advantages and limitations." The results were conclusive: "The analysis shows that the system is more cost-effective than current methods, especially in arid climates."

The development was presented in the paper "A novel solar panel cleaning system for improved efficiency," published in the journal Unconventional Resources. Researchers from Morocco's Green Energy Park Research Platform, the Centre of Excellence in Applied Chemistry and Engineering and the Laboratory of Applied Sciences and Innovative Technologies participated.