PROJECT TITLE
Dust-Busters: An Affordable Air Jet System Empowering Solar Panel Owners to Maximize Renewable Energy Year-Round
PROJECT GOAL: In Colorado and beyond, low-income homeowners and small businesses often can’t afford to clean their solar panels, losing up to 60% of energy output. This deepens energy inequity and limits the impact of renewable energy. Our solution is a low-cost, zero-chemical, water-free air-cleaning system that removes debris and improves solar efficiency. By lowering the barrier to solar maintenance, Dust-Busters supports UN Sustainable Development Goal #7 by making clean energy more accessible, effective, and equitable.
Dust-Busters is a compact, air-powered solar panel cleaner that uses four 40mm fans with 3D-printed directional nozzles to remove dust, pollen, and light snow. The unit clamps onto the panel edge with tool-free brackets and is controlled via a mobile app or website, allowing users to activate it remotely without climbing onto their roof. Our design is unique in its modularity, affordability, and eco-friendliness: it requires no water, chemicals, or professional service. It empowers users to maintain energy output efficiently and safely, especially during winter months.
