As a solar farm operator, the time will come when your PV panels require cleaning. With numerous companies offering this service, it is crucial to select the best solar cleaning service provider. This guide outlines the key considerations when evaluating solar panel cleaning companies.

Why Clean Your Solar Panels?

Solar panels are designed to collect as much sunlight as possible, ensuring optimal electricity production. This means they are constantly exposed to the elements. Over time, PV panels accumulate dirt and grime from airborne dust, pollen, tree and plant sap, soot, bird droppings, and rainwater.

As dust layers build up on your solar panels, less sunlight reaches the cells, resulting in reduced electricity production. In Europe, dirty PV panels can lead to up to a 4% production loss, costing the industry up to 5 billion euros annually.

Particles like bird droppings can also damage solar panels. Bird droppings contain uric acid, which can cause hot spotting, decreasing cell efficiency and necessitating costly repairs or replacements. The etchings left by droppings can create permanent marks, further affecting performance.

Additionally, some solar panel manufacturers require regular cleaning as part of their product warranty terms.

Challenges of Cleaning PV Panels on Solar Farms

While cleaning is essential for maintaining maximum efficiency, the process comes with challenges:

• Large Surface Areas: Solar farms cover extensive areas, involving thousands of PV panels. Cleaning each panel properly can be difficult, especially with challenging topographies.

• Solar Farm Designs: The design and layout of some farms make panels hard to reach, requiring specialized cleaning equipment and techniques. Rooftop installations and tilted panels may need meticulous planning.

• Environmental Factors: Weather conditions like strong winds and heavy rain can complicate cleaning efforts.

Professional Cleaning vs. In-House Cleaning

Solar farm operators must decide whether to handle cleaning in-house or hire a professional company.

• In-House Cleaning: While seemingly cost-effective, this option can be labour-intensive and time-consuming, diverting resources from core tasks. In-house teams may lack the specialized tools and skills required, risking panel damage. Safety training for in-house staff can also be challenging, leading to potential accidents and downtime.

• Professional Cleaning Services: Professional companies have in-depth knowledge of solar panels, proper cleaning techniques, and the best tools and materials for different panel types. They ensure worker safety and can inspect for damage, wear, and other issues during cleaning.

What to Look for When Choosing a Solar Panel Cleaning Company

Selecting the best solar cleaning service provider ensures high value for costs. Key factors to consider include:

• Expertise and Experience: Choose a company with the experience and expertise to understand your solar plant’s unique conditions. They should efficiently clean large arrays of different panel designs and layouts, using specialized equipment to ensure thorough cleaning without damage.

• Quality of Service: Engage a company that can tailor their services to your specific needs. Regular cleaning is crucial, so select a provider that can consistently deliver stellar service using the best methods, such as ultra-pure, de-ionized water or treated tap water.

• Reputation: Research the company's reputation online. Look for testimonials and ratings from existing clients to ensure they have a track record of successful projects. Verify that the company meets all licensing conditions, possesses necessary permits, and is fully insured.

• Environmental Considerations: Prioritize companies that use environmentally friendly materials, dispose of them responsibly, and adhere to industry-specific and environmental regulations.

• Cleaning Technology: The solar cleaning sector has evolved with advanced technologies like robot cleaners and automated systems. Evaluate the effectiveness of the technology used by each prospective company, considering factors like location, facility size, costs, and resources.

Self-Cleaning Solutions

Self-cleaning panels offer many benefits compared to robotic and automated technologies. For instance, AirDefender’s hydrophilic coating ensures water spreads evenly over the panel surface, allowing wind to blow dirt away. This prevents bird droppings from sticking without the risk of damage from mechanical cleaning methods. AirDefender’s Solar Panel Surface Solution offers five years of effortless, chemical-free maintenance.

Conclusion

Keeping your solar panels clean ensures maximum efficiency and prolongs their service life. Following the steps in this guide will help you select the best solar cleaning service provider for your farm, ensuring your PV panels continue to harvest the sun's energy effectively.