Automated design for boosting offshore Photovoltaic (PV) performance

This paper presents a novel automatic cleaning device used to enhance the output power of PV modules especially for offshore applications where efficiency and reliability are critical issues. The design described has also the capability of repelling birds from approaching near the PV systems, nesting and therefore preventing bird droppings. The system is powered and controlled by means of a programmable logic controller (PLC) which has the ability of program upgrading and low power consumption.