A big challenge solar panel owners face is inconsistent power output, caused by obstructions in the path of sunlight to the solar cells. Two such obstructions occur on the panel’s surface: dust and dirt accumulation as well as reflection. Using knowledge of light transmission and surface properties, I am refining a high transmission hydrophobic system to reduce output loss over the lifetime of a panel, in a hope to positively contribute to the global effort towards net zero.

If successful, this coating will remove the need for regular cleaning of solar panels, reducing maintenance costs and water usage, which would be especially crucial in equatorial regions, where intense heat and humidity lead to elevated levels of dust pollution. We hope that this will make it easier to own and maintain panels for the duration of their service life and companies will be keen to implement this technology as an in-built feature.