# Artificial Intelligence of Things for Solar Energy Monitoring and Control
## 2 AIoT in PV Systems: Background
### Internet of Things
In PV systems, actuators play a crucial role in optimizing performance by adjusting the angles of solar panels in tracking systems, automating cleaning mechanisms, and enabling remote control of switches and inverters. This integration enhances automation, efficiency, and overall energy management [40]. Pneumatic actuators use compressed air to generate motion and are occasionally employed in PV systems, particularly in cleaning systems, where they provide quick and precise movement for panel maintenance and debris removal. In contrast, electric actuators rely on external energy sources, such as batteries, to produce linear or rotary motion. These are widely used in PV systems to adjust the tilt and orientation of solar panels in solar tracking systems, ensuring panels follow the sun's path to maximize energy capture. Electric actuators are also integral to automated cleaning systems, helping maintain panel efficiency by removing dust and debris. Wireless communication technologies are integral to the functionality of IoT systems, enabling seamless data transfer between sensor devices, IoT gateways, and other system components. These technologies vary based on factors such as communication range, bandwidth, and power efficiency. In PV systems, ensuring reliable communication is particularly important, especially in remote locations where solar plants are often situated. Therefore, selecting technologies that support continuous, real-time, and energy-efficient data transfer is crucial for monitoring performance, managing energy generation, and enabling remote maintenance [41]. Short-range technologies are well suited for localized monitoring and control, ensuring the efficient operation and integration of PV components within smart energy networks. Wi-Fi, for instance, is commonly used for monitoring energy production and system performance, allowing remote access and control. However, its high power consumption makes it less ideal for energy-sensitive applications like PV systems, where energy efficiency is paramount [41; 42]. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a cost-effective communication technology with a range of up to 30 m, making it ideal for small-scale IoT applications in PV systems. BLE is particularly useful in energy management systems for monitoring and controlling PV systems in smart homes and offices, enabling optimized energy consumption through enhanced communication between devices [43; 44]. Zigbee, designed for low-power applications with a communication range of up to 100 m (extendable through mesh networks), is widely used in PV systems. It supports smart grid integration, energy monitoring, and home automation, optimizing energy usage by enabling seamless communication between PV components such as inverters, sensors, and controllers [45; 46]. Low-Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies are crucial for enabling long-range, energy-efficient communication in IoT systems. These technologies are particularly valuable for remote monitoring and management of PV systems, especially in large-scale or isolated installations. LoRa, a widely adopted LPWAN technology, offers long-range communication (over 10 km in rural areas) with low power consumption, making it ideal for smart grids and building automation. In PV systems, LoRa is used for energy management and monitoring over large distances, particularly in remote areas [47,48]. Satellite technologies play a crucial role in PV systems, especially in remote or off-grid areas where traditional communication networks are unavailable. These technologies enable seamless data transmission between PV systems and central monitoring centers, ensuring continuous performance tracking, fault detection, and maintenance planning. For large-scale solar farms or isolated installations, satellite communication provides a reliable means to monitor parameters such as energy generation, weather conditions, and system efficiency.