Solis
- An automatic rooftop solar panel cleaner.
An automatic Solar Panel cleaner designed for rooftop installations in India, keeping in mind user safety, automation in mind, and increasing efficiency by 25% while eliminating rooftop risks.
Project Type:
University Project, NU
Year:
2020
The Challenge
- Design an automated cleaning solution for rooftop solar panels that prioritizes user safety.
- Eliminate the need for manual cleaning at dangerous heights (8-10 feet above roof).
- Increase solar panel efficiency through regular, effective cleaning.
- Create a cost-effective solution for the growing Indian residential solar market.
Safety First
Zero manual intervention at 8-10ft heights
Efficiency Boost
Increased energy output by 18-25% via intelligent cleaning
Sustainability
60% less water than manual methods via misting system
Smart Grid Integration
Designed IoT architecture enabling real-time energy data sharing with DISCOMs
Process Gallery:
Dust Analysis: 32% efficiency loss post-monsoon in Gujarat (worst-case scenario)
Behavioral Study: 78% users skipped cleaning due to safety fears
Material Science: Non-abrasive microfiber brushes prevent microcracks (vs. pressure washers)
IoT Architecture: ESP32-CAM module for remote diagnostics + performance tracking
Research & Discovery
Impact
25% Energy Recovery: AI-driven dry/wet cycles increased panel output in Indian dust/monsoon conditions
60% Water Savings: Misting system vs manual washing (18L→7L per 3kW array)
₹15k BOM Cost: Enabled 5-year ROI for 40M+ Indian households with rooftop solar
