INFLUENCE OF AUTOMATIC DUST CLEANING SYSTEM ON SOLAR PANEL EFFICIENCY

This study comprehensively analyzes the optical losses caused by the accumulation of dust and aerosol layers on solar panels and their impact on the efficiency of photoelectric conversion. In the climatic conditions of Central Asia, in particular in arid and windy regions, it is observed that the accumulation of dust in the amount of 1–5 g/m² on the panel surface in a short period of time (within 7–10 days) reduces energy production by an average of 10–25%. The study evaluates the efficiency of a low-cost automated dust cleaning system (mechanical vibration, microbrush or air flow) compared to traditional manual cleaning methods using experimental and modeling methods. The results show that automated systems with minimal energy consumption (≤2% of the generated energy) increase the annual total useful efficiency of the panel by 12–18% and reduce maintenance costs by 30–40%. The environmental advantages of waterless cleaning mechanisms in areas with limited water resources are also substantiated. The optimized operating mode proposed by the author (adaptive control of dust accumulation rate and weather parameters) increases the economic efficiency of the system and is considered an important factor in ensuring the sustainability of renewable energy sources.