Tech watch: Self-cleaning panels promise cheaper power

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Dust accumulation causes solar panel efficiency losses of up to 30% or more in arid regions, necessitating frequent cleaning that wastes scarce water. Researchers in Egypt have now developed a self-cleaning system based on vibrations that keep panels clean without water or manual work to maintain panel output in the desert.

• Though not the first of its kind, being locally made in Egypt gives the solution a stronger chance of suiting local conditions. China has pioneered several robotic systems not reliant on water.

• Most other cleaning methods are expensive and water-intensive. Often they involve recurring costs for trucks, chemicals and labour.

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