Optimizing the cleaning plan of a solar PV system plant

The rapid growth of the photovoltaic (PV) industry in the UAE requires efficient maintenance plans to ensure optimal energy production. Soiling significantly reduces the efficiency of solar panels, making regular cleaning essential. This study aims to optimize the cleaning schedule of PV panels to balance maintenance costs with the benefits of increased energy output. A mathematical optimization model using the CPLEX optimizer was employed to determine the optimal cleaning intervals for a 10 MW solar power plant in Masdar City. The study examined 40 rows of solar panels over a 90-day period, with cleaning intervals ranging from 3 to 20 days. Results show that cleaning 5 to 9 panels per row, 6 to 7 times, minimized energy losses due to soiling. The total estimated cost, including cleaning and cost due to soiling loss, amounted to $7,987 over the 90-day period. This optimized approach offers a cost-effective solution for minimizing power losses and financial impact due to soiling in desert climates, providing valuable insights for operators and maintenance managers.