Google conducted a ground-breaking experiment at their 1.6 MW solar farm in Mountain View, California. They found that cleaning the solar was “the number one way to maximize the energy they produce.” Cleaning solar panels that had been in operation for 15 months doubled their output of electricity.
Solar Panel Cleaning
Keeping your solar panels clean is essential for maximizing their efficiency, longevity, and return on investment. Solar panels work by capturing sunlight and converting it into electricity, but dirt, dust, bird droppings, pollen, and other debris can accumulate on the surface over time, significantly reducing their performance. Here are several key reasons to keep your solar panels clean and the benefits of doing so.
Clean solar panels absorb sunlight more effectively than dirty ones. Dust, dirt, and other particulates can create a barrier that reduces the amount of light reaching the solar cells, leading to lower energy production. Studies show that panels with significant buildup can lose between 10-20% of their energy output, depending on the amount of debris present.
Dirt and dust are abrasive and can cause micro-scratches on the glass covering, especially if they are left for a long time. These scratches affect the transparency and efficiency of the panels, ultimately reducing their lifespan. Regular cleaning minimizes these risks.
Many solar energy systems include monitoring software to track performance. When panels are dirty, it’s harder to tell if any dip in production is due to environmental factors, a need for cleaning, or actual system issues. By keeping your panels clean, you can more easily identify and address real issues with the system.
Many solar panel warranties require routine maintenance, including regular cleaning. Failing to keep panels clean could lead to issues that might not be covered under warranty. By keeping up with regular cleaning, you ensure compliance with your warranty terms and prevent voiding it.
We stay up-to-date on all relevant laws and regulations to ensure that your property is always in compliance. We handle all necessary paperwork and documentation to keep you protected.
Chemicals can leave residue: Many cleaning agents contain detergents, soaps, or other substances that might leave a film or residue on the solar panels. This can reduce the panel’s ability to absorb sunlight effectively, decreasing overall efficiency.
Purified water prevents streaks: Purified or deionized water (often used in solar panel cleaning) doesn’t contain minerals or impurities, so it dries without leaving streaks or spots that could obstruct sunlight.
Protective coatings on solar panels: Many solar panels have an anti-reflective or hydrophobic coating to maximize efficiency. Chemical cleaners can be too harsh and may degrade or damage this coating over time.
Soft cleaning with water: Purified water is a non-abrasive cleaning method that does not interfere with or damage these protective layers, preserving the panel’s longevity.
Reduced environmental impact: Using chemical cleaners can introduce harmful substances into the environment, especially if the runoff goes into nearby soil or water sources. Purified water, on the other hand, is environmentally friendly as it doesn’t contain any toxic additives.
· Safer for users: Handling and applying chemicals can pose health risks to the person cleaning the panels, especially if safety protocols are not followed. Using purified water reduces the risk of exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Deionized water acts as a solvent: Purified or deionized water is highly effective at dissolving dirt, dust, and other debris because it lacks ions. This makes it a natural solvent, which helps lift contaminants off the surface without needing added chemicals.
· Enhanced dirt removal: The purity of deionized water helps it better attract and remove particles from the glass surface, enhancing cleaning efficiency without needing additional agents.
No mineral buildup: Regular tap water often contains minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can leave behind hard water stains or mineral deposits on solar panels. Over time, these can build up and reduce light transmission.
· Purified water prevents scaling: By using deionized or distilled water, you eliminate the risk of these deposits forming, keeping the panels clean and maintaining optimal efficiency.
Using purified water for cleaning solar panels is a safer, more effective, and environmentally friendly option compared to chemical cleaning agents. It helps maintain the performance and longevity of the panels while minimizing risks of damage or residue buildup.
Solar Guard are specially designed deterrents placed on or near solar panels to prevent birds and small animals from nesting or perching on them. The spikes are usually made from durable, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or UV-resistant plastic, ensuring they are long-lasting and non-damaging.
Birds can leave droppings, nesting materials, and debris on solar panels, which block sunlight and reduce energy output. By keeping birds away, solar spikes ensure panels remain clean and unobstructed, maintaining optimal efficiency.
Excessive buildup of droppings and nesting materials can cause moisture accumulation, leading to potential corrosion or other damage. Solar spikes help preserve panel surfaces, improving the overall lifespan of the system.
Birds and small animals sometimes chew on or disturb wiring beneath solar panels, leading to potential electrical issues and costly repairs. By deterring animals from nesting or perching, spikes help protect the integrity of the system’s wiring.
Solar spikes are discreet, designed to blend with the appearance of the solar panel system without affecting the overall aesthetics. They also help keep the surrounding area clean and safe by reducing the presence of bird droppings and allergens around the panels. In summary, installing solar spikes is an effective, humane, and economical solution for preventing birds and small animals from interfering with solar panel systems, ultimately enhancing performance, reducing maintenance, and extending the system’s longevity.
1. Site Assessment: The area around the solar panels is assessed to identify common nesting or perching spots.
2. Spike Placement: Spikes are positioned around the edges of solar panels or in gaps where birds tend to roost, such as under the panel edges.
3. Secure Attachment: Spikes are secured using non-invasive methods like adhesive bases, clips, or brackets that don’t damage the panels or affect their efficiency. Some setups allow spikes to be easily removed or repositioned for maintenance.
We stay up-to-date on all relevant laws and regulations to ensure that your property is always in compliance. We handle all necessary paperwork and documentation to keep you protected.
• Custom System Design: Tailored to meet your energy requirements and maximise efficiency.
• Expert Installation: Conducted by skilled professionals, ensuring top-tier results and system longevity.
• Funding Options: o Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): No upfront costs, fixed energy rates, and immediate savings.
Full system ownership, delivering significant ROI and reduced energy costs. Roofing and Construction Expertise A successful solar installation requires a solid foundation, and we’ve got it covered:
Slate, tile, and flat roof installations alongside maintenance and modern systems to prepare your roof for solar.
• Integrated Construction Support: Ensuring all structural requirements for solar installations are met efficiently and effectively. 20+ Years of Scaffolding Excellence Our robust scaffolding division plays a critical role in ensuring safe and efficient project execution.
EUSR (Energy & Utility Skills Register) Certified. CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) Qualified. Full compliance with industry health and safety standards.
We stay up-to-date on all relevant laws and regulations to ensure that your property is always in compliance. We handle all necessary paperwork and documentation to keep you protected.
Bespoke Contract Services Ltd
Unit 2 Cornishway Industrial Estate Manchester M22 0WT
Main office 0330 088 7000
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Company Number 3108250
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