Optimal Cleaning Schedule for Photovoltaic Fleet: Analyzing the Impact of Operational Costs on System Profitability

Cleaning plays a crucial role in mitigating the negative impact of soiling on PV system energy output. While existing studies focus on determining optimal cleaning frequencies for individual PV systems, route planning becomes vital for large-scale PV fleet cleaning in real-world scenarios. This study investigates a PV fleet with three systems to identify the best cleaning schedule, considering operational costs associated with cleaning and transportation. By analyzing these factors, the study determines the timing and frequency of cleanings that maximize profitability and provides recommendations for optimal cleaning routes. The study highlights the inefficiency of standardized cleaning schedules for PV fleets due to unique system characteristics and operational requirements, necessitating varying cleaning frequencies. To improve accuracy and effectiveness, future research should integrate forecasting techniques considering electricity demand dynamics and dust accumulation seasonality.