Solving the dust dilemma

Dust accumulates in large quantities in arid regions as the wind picks up. This blowing dust is a challenge to large-scale solar projects, typically built in the desert regions of the world where sunshine is more plentiful. Some projects are the size of several football fields. As dust accumulates on solar panels, efficiency of the panels decreases.

However, large-scale solar projects could use technology employed by NASA for Mars space missions. The solution? Self-dusting solar panels capable of increasing efficiency and reducing maintenance costs at large solar plants in the desert regions.

The process of self-cleaning involves placing an initial coat of electrically sensitive material on the panels. This allows sensors to measure dust levels. When dust levels reach a critical level, the coating can be "energized," sending a wave of electricity across the panels to remove the dust. Within two minutes, dust is removed from the panels.