Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are significantly affected by dust, sand, bird droppings, and other environmental contaminants that accumulate on panel surfaces, leading to a substantial reduction in power output and overall energy efficiency. This research paper presents the design and development of an autonomous solar panel cleaning robot aimed at enhancing energy efficiency by maintaining clean panel surfaces with minimal human intervention. The proposed robot is equipped with a compact mechanical cleaning mechanism, obstacle‑detection sensors, and an autonomous navigation system that allows it to traverse over the solar panel array without causing damage or casting shadows. The cleaning process is optimized through timed or condition‑based triggers, reducing water consumption in water‑assisted variants and enabling dry‑brush operation in arid regions. Experimental results from a scaled prototype demonstrate a measurable improvement in panel output after cleaning cycles, confirming that regular autonomous cleaning can sustain higher energy yields compared to manually cleaned or uncleaned panels. The study highlights the potential of such an autonomous robot for large‑scale solar farms and rooftop installations, contributing to the long‑term reliability and cost‑effectiveness of solar power systems.