Robotic Solar Cleaning Powers Efficiency in Maharashtra and Rajasthan

Robotic solar module cleaning is rapidly expanding in Maharashtra and Rajasthan, driven by agricultural solarization programs and large-scale utility projects. Farmers and developers are adopting water-free, automated cleaning systems to combat dust-heavy conditions and improve energy yields, said a report by Mercom India.

Why Robotic Cleaning Is Growing

• Dust-heavy environments: Both states face high dust accumulation, which reduces solar panel efficiency.
• Water scarcity: Traditional water-based cleaning is unsustainable; robotic systems offer water-free solutions.
• Government programs: Initiatives like PM-KUSUM and Maharashtra’s Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY) are pushing decentralized solar adoption, making robotic cleaning essential for long-term performance.
• Utility-scale adoption: Companies like Waaree Renewables are deploying thousands of robots across Rajasthan’s mega solar projects.

Key Developments in Each State

State	Drivers of Adoption	Notable Projects	Benefits
Maharashtra	PM-KUSUM & MSKVY programs; solarization of agricultural pumps	Feeder-level solar projects for farmers	Reduced manual labor, higher efficiency, sustainable O&M
Rajasthan	Large utility-scale solar farms; dusty desert climate	Waaree Renewables’ 1.2 GWp projects with 2,000+ LEAPTING robots	High cleaning efficiency, water-free operation, optimized for fixed-tilt structures

Technology Highlights

• LEAPTING G1 robots: Fully automatic, water-free, optimized for tracker and fixed-tilt structures. Proven in dusty, high-temperature environments.
• Automation in O&M: Reduces costs, improves consistency, and extends module lifespan.
• Scalability: From small feeder-level projects for farmers to gigawatt-scale solar farms.

Challenges & Trade-offs

• Initial investment: Robotic systems are costlier upfront compared to manual cleaning.
• Maintenance of robots: Requires technical expertise and spare parts availability.
• Farmer adoption barriers: Smaller farmers may hesitate due to cost unless supported by subsidies.
• Technology dependence: Reliability of robots in extreme weather conditions is still being tested.

Big Picture

The rise of robotic solar cleaning in Maharashtra and Rajasthan reflects India’s broader push toward sustainable, decentralized, and utility-scale solar energy. By reducing water use and improving efficiency, these systems are becoming critical for both farmers under PM-KUSUM and developers of gigawatt-scale projects.