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An efficient cleaning method is crucial for the power production and equipment reliability of a Photovoltaic (PV) system. This paper presents an alternative cleaning and dust detection method for PV modules. Instead of monitoring the difference between the real and theoretical power production of PV modules, this method analyzes the soiling loss by alternatively cleaning two panels at the beginning of the cleaning period. When the loss reaches the cleaning cost, a cleaning reminder is generated while considering the weather forecast. The efficacy of the proposed theoretical model is established based on 1-year data collected in the Shandong PV system. Annual production improvement of more than 1.33% is achieved with a net return of more than 0.78% on the deduction of cleaning cost, which is equal to $1363/GWh economic benefit per year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]