SPARCC – Solar Panel Augmentation via Regulated Cooling and Cleaning

Authors

• Zachary Rodgers, Florida Institute of Technology
• Connor Fromme, Florida Institute of Technology
• Mohammed Al Jahwari, Florida Institute of Technology
• Jack Connor, Florida Institute of Technology
• Nicolas Hubley, Florida Institute of Technology
• Adrian Kingdollar, Florida Institute of Technology
• Iain LeRoy, Florida Institute of Technology
• Maria Jesus Munoz, Florida Institute of Technology
• Ashton Stringer, Florida Institute of Technology

Document Type

Poster

Publication Title

Northrop Grumman Engineering & Science Student Design Showcase

Abstract

Problem Statement: Solar energy is the fastest-growing source of energy in the world. Solar cells lose efficiency by 0.35-0.7% per degree Celsius and up to 98% from debris build up. The primary objective of SPARCC was to improve cell efficiency through cooling and cleaning. A brush system with water spray was implemented to clean the panels, and a passive cooling system that utilizes a solar chimney, heat sinks, and phase change material to clean and cool.

Advisor

Hamidreza Najafi, Anand Nellippallil

Publication Date

4-24-2026

Recommended Citation

Rodgers, Zachary; Fromme, Connor; Al Jahwari, Mohammed; Connor, Jack; Hubley, Nicolas; Kingdollar, Adrian; LeRoy, Iain; Jesus Munoz, Maria; and Stringer, Ashton, "SPARCC – Solar Panel Augmentation via Regulated Cooling and Cleaning" (2026). Mechanical and Civil Engineering Student Publications. 48.
https://repository.fit.edu/mce_student/48