The photovoltaic (PV) panels installed on the rooftop of the Research Management & Innovation Complex have been facing persistent issues related to dust and dirt accumulation. Jabatan Harta Benda (JHB) has had to manage challenges such as dust, calcium deposits, debris, and bird droppings, which cause permanent dirt streaks on the PV glass surface and corrosion of the PV panel frames. These factors significantly reduce the electric current generated by the PV cells, resulting in lower energy output.
Innovation through NANOGARD SC202–P Coating Technology
This project introduces the application of NANOGARD SC202–P, a self-cleaning coating applied using roller method technology, to address these issues. On a small scale, this coating has already been tested on solar panels. Initial studies revealed that the efficiency of coated solar panels increased by 10% after two months of outdoor exposure, with further improvements projected to reach 15%. Encouraged by these promising results, the research team is now motivated to expand the application to a large-scale solar plant using the same roller method.
Proven Success and Benchmarking
The success of this technology at the University of Malaya’s solar installation serves as a benchmark for the effectiveness of locally developed self-cleaning coatings on large PV systems. The NANOGARD SC202–P coating has demonstrated the potential to increase energy harvesting from solar panels by approximately 15%, showcasing its viability as a sustainable and efficient solution.
Contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
By reducing the need for water-intensive cleaning processes, NANOGARD SC202–P indirectly supports SDG 6. This innovation minimizes water usage in maintaining solar panels, offering a sustainable solution particularly valuable in water-scarce regions.
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
The super-hydrophobic technology in NANOGARD SC202–P prevents dust accumulation on solar panels, recovering up to 98% of energy lost due to soiling. This efficiency improvement enhances the overall energy output from solar installations, contributing to the goal of providing affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all.
SDG 13: Climate Action
The coating significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with solar panel maintenance. Research indicates that this technology can reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas impacts by up to 99.9%. This contribution supports global efforts to combat climate change and align with international climate targets.
Economic Benefits
Implementing NANOGARD SC202–P offers substantial economic advantages by lowering the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) to approximately USD 0.03 per kilowatt-hour. This cost reduction makes solar energy more competitive and accessible, promoting investment in renewable energy and driving sustainable economic growth.
By integrating innovative self-cleaning technology, this project not only addresses operational challenges in solar energy production but also contributes to broader sustainability and economic goals, reinforcing the role of clean energy solutions in mitigating climate change.
