Egyptian researchers developed two nature-inspired methods to keep solar panels clear of desert dust. The work comes from the German University in Cairo and has been commercialised by a company founded by engineer Hossam Mohamed. The first commercial installation was placed in Cairo’s Fifth Settlement about a month ago and early results are described as promising.
The electrically driven system uses a small motor with an unbalanced metal weight to create mechanical vibrations. An electronic unit controls the running times. It shakes off dust twice daily, at noon and at 3am, for about one minute each time. The system can run on power from the panel or on a small independent battery and the panels also have an antistatic nano-coating.
Field trials compared different setups. Conventional panels that were not cleaned lost around 33 per cent of their efficiency after six weeks, while panels with the vibration system and nano-coating lost only 12.9 per cent. A wind-driven mounting lost only 5 per cent in a six-week trial. Experts note questions about long-term durability and economic benefit, and the company says the system has been rigorously tested.
Difficult words
- panel — A flat surface for collecting energy.panels
- energy — The ability to do work or cause change.
- clean — To remove dirt or impurities.cleaning, self-cleaning
- efficiency — Effectiveness in achieving a result.
- technology — Tools and methods for solving problems.
- researcher — A person who studies a subject in depth.researchers
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What are the benefits of self-cleaning technology in solar panels?
- Why is it important to maintain efficiency in solar energy systems?
- How might weather conditions affect solar panel performance?
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