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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:geo="http://www.w3.org/2003/01/geo/wgs84_pos#" > <channel> <title>airDefender</title> <atom:link href="https://airdefender.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://airdefender.com</link> <description>Redefine Surface Coating Technology </description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 09:26:30 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <image> <url>https://i0.wp.com/airdefender.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/airdefender-without-r_logo-blue-01.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1</url> <title>airDefender</title> <link>https://airdefender.com</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height></image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">223278721</site> <item> <title>WHAT ARE SELF-CLEANING SOLAR PANELS?</title> <link>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/what-are-self-cleaning-solar-panels-2/</link> <comments>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/what-are-self-cleaning-solar-panels-2/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Albert Wong]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 09:12:18 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://airdefender.com/?p=1731</guid> <description><![CDATA[The UK solar energy market has experienced massive growth...]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The UK solar energy market has experienced massive growth, with an <a href="https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/united-kingdom-solar-power-market-industry">estimated 18.53 GW in installed capacity by 2024</a> and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.53 percent. Commercial solar farms, driving this growth with <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/renewable-energy-planning-database-monthly-extract">over 1,000 installations</a> totaling more than 13 GW in capacity, require regular cleaning to maintain maximum efficiency. One cleaning method gaining attention is self-cleaning technology. This article provides an overview of self-cleaning PV panel technology, how it works, and its benefits.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">The Science of Self-Cleaning Solar Panels</h4> <p>Self-cleaning solar panels feature a hydrophobic layer that protects the surface. This coating reduces mineral accumulation by preventing water droplets from sticking to the panels. When the water droplets roll off, they carry dust and dirt particles with them. For optimal performance, self-cleaning panels should be installed at an angle to facilitate debris roll-off.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Self-Cleaning and Nanotechnology</h4> <p>Nanotechnology plays a crucial role in self-cleaning solar panels. These panels often have coatings made from materials like organosilicon compounds, fluorinated polymers, and other inorganic substances.</p> <p>Some self-cleaning solar panels use coatings containing nanoparticles, which generate electrostatic fields that repel dust and dirt when exposed to sunlight. Another method involves photocatalytic activity, where nanoparticles like titanium dioxide (TiO2) act as photocatalysts, accelerating chemical reactions under sunlight. These reactions break down organic contaminants on the panel surfaces, keeping them clean.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Types of Solar Panel Self-Cleaning Coatings</h4> <p>There are two primary types of self-cleaning solar panel coatings:</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Hydrophobic Coatings</h5> <p>Hydrophobic coatings repel water and dirt. When water contacts the surface, the droplets bead up and slide off, carrying dust and dirt particles. Superhydrophobic coatings, such as those made from organosilicon compounds and fluorinated polymers, enhance this effect, making droplets fall off easily.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Hydrophilic Coatings</h5> <p>Hydrophilic coatings attract water, working in two stages. First, the photocatalytic activity of the coating material decomposes organic dirt under sunlight. In the second stage, the coating’s super-hydrophilic property disperses water evenly over the panel surface, washing away the broken-down dirt and particles.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Benefits of Self-Cleaning Solar Panels</h4> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Enhanced Solar Energy Production</h5> <p>Clean PV panels capture more sunlight, increasing electricity production. Self-cleaning ensures panels operate at maximum efficiency.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Reduced Maintenance Costs</h5> <p>Manual cleaning of solar panels is laborious and time-consuming. Self-cleaning panels reduce the frequency of cleaning, cutting maintenance costs and freeing up personnel for other tasks. This is especially beneficial for large solar farms spread over acres or for rooftop installations that are hard to access.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental Benefits</h5> <p>Self-cleaning PV panels conserve water by reducing the amount needed for cleaning. A <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-16-0594-9_7#:~:text=is%20carried%20out.-,Pure%20water%20of%20around%202.5%20L%20per%20panel%20per%20cycle%20is%20the%20average%20requirement%20to%20keep%20the%20panel%20at%20peak%20performance.%20Considering%20a%2010%20MWp%20capacity%20plant%20has%20around%2033%2C000">typical panel requires about 2.5 liters of water per cleaning</a>, meaning a 10 MWp plant with 33,000 panels could use about 165,000 liters monthly for two cleaning cycles. Additionally, self-cleaning panels reduce the use of chemical cleaning agents, minimizing environmental impact.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Expanded Lifespan</h5> <p>Manual cleaning risks breaking and abrading solar panels. Self-cleaning panels mitigate these risks by reducing the frequency of manual cleaning, helping to preserve the panels and extend their lifespan.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Do Self-Cleaning Solar Panels Need to Be Cleaned?</h4> <p>While many UK solar panels are self-cleaning, regular maintenance is still necessary. Factors such as proximity to busy roads, airports, or industrial areas can lead to faster grime accumulation. Nearby trees can deposit leaves, and birds may leave droppings.</p> <p>Enhancing the self-cleaning properties of solar panels with specialized coatings, such as AirDefender’s advanced photocatalyst technology, can provide five years of effortless maintenance. This eco-friendly solution prevents the formation of stubborn wastes, including bird droppings, eliminating the risks of panel breakage or scratching during manual cleaning.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h3> <p>Solar panels perform best when their surfaces are clean. Despite their self-cleaning capabilities, they still require regular maintenance due to environmental factors. Using self-cleaning PV panels on solar farms offers significant benefits but does not entirely eliminate the need for regular cleaning.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/what-are-self-cleaning-solar-panels-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1731</post-id> </item> <item> <title>SOLAR PANEL CLEANING CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS IN THE UK</title> <link>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/solar-panel-cleaning-challenges-and-solutions-in-the-uk/</link> <comments>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/solar-panel-cleaning-challenges-and-solutions-in-the-uk/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Albert Wong]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 07:58:19 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://airdefender.com/?p=1568</guid> <description><![CDATA[Solar energy is a pivotal component of the UK’s sustainable energy strategy...]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Solar energy is a pivotal component of the UK’s sustainable energy strategy, with thousands of commercial solar farms in operation. Despite their reliability, photovoltaic (PV) panels require regular cleaning to maintain efficiency. This article delves into the importance of solar panel cleaning, the challenges involved, and potential solutions.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Why Solar Panel Cleaning is Essential for Efficiency</h4> <p>Solar panels are pivotal for sustainable energy production in the UK. However, maintaining their efficiency requires regular cleaning to prevent soiling. Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can block sunlight, significantly reducing the panels’ performance. Studies show that soiling can <a href="https://www.nrel.gov/news/features/2021/scientists-studying-solar-try-solving-a-dusty-problem.html">cause up to a 50% loss in energy output annually</a>, especially in dusty environments. Regular cleaning ensures optimal solar energy efficiency and maximizes the return on investment for solar farm operators.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Sources of Solar Panel Contaminants</h4> <p>Panel soiling can come from multiple sources. The most common airborne particles are dirt and dust, which cling to panel surfaces. Bird droppings, due to their acidic nature, can corrode PV panel surfaces if not cleaned promptly. Depending on the location and season, pollen and leaves can also stick to solar panel surfaces, blocking sunlight. Solar farms situated by roadsides or in industrial areas can accumulate pollutants like soot and chemical residues.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Top Challenges in Solar Panel Cleaning</h4> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Weather and Environmental Challenges</h5> <p>The UK’s weather significantly impacts solar panel cleaning. Frequent rainfall may help to clean the panels but doesn’t do a thorough job as not all types of dirt are removed. Rainfall often leaves streaks on the panels. In winter, snow and frost make cleaning more difficult. Wind, while useful for drying panels, can also deposit dust and debris. Solar farms must adapt to changing cleaning needs as the seasons change. Additionally, <a href="https://news.mit.edu/2022/solar-panels-dust-magnets-0311">solar module cleaning consumes significant amounts of water—about 45 billion litres annually</a>, enough to supply 2 million people with drinking water.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Access and Safety Challenges</h5> <p>Commercial solar operations often spread across many acres, making it difficult and time-consuming to reach each solar panel physically for cleaning. PV panels installed on rooftops pose accessibility challenges and safety risks, making the job hazardous. Trained workers and specialized implements are required, and personnel must follow the UK’s safety regulations on working at heights.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Risk of Damage</h5> <p>Cleaning photovoltaic panels generally involves brushing and rinsing them with water. This process carries the risk of damage, as panels might get broken by the brush or high-pressure hoses. The surface might also become scratched, necessitating expensive replacements. Using improper detergents can introduce harsh chemicals that erode the panels’ coatings and contaminate soil and waterways.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Selecting the Best Solar Panel Cleaners</h4> <p>Larger solar farms often outsource the cleaning of their PV panels. Selecting the best contractor is challenging, as it requires a certain level of expertise and experience. Opting for the lowest quote might appear financially prudent but can result in a shoddy job or damaged panels.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Innovative Technological Solutions in Solar Panel Cleaning</h4> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Automated Systems</h5> <p>The UK industry has seen the evolution of traditional PV panel cleaning methods. Automated systems that do not require human control have emerged. Despite their advantages, these systems consume large quantities of water and may have compatibility issues with solar farms’ layouts. They also require regular maintenance to function properly.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Robotic Cleaners</h5> <p>Robotic cleaners promise reduced cleaning costs and more precision, touching every inch of the panels while cutting water usage. However, robotic cleaners may not handle all farm layouts and may be too heavy due to the need to carry a battery and water, risking damage to the panels.</p> <h5 class="wp-block-heading">Self-Cleaning Coatings</h5> <p>Many solar panels installed in the UK contain a self-cleaning coating, but this is often insufficient to keep dust, dirt, and other particles away. Panels still require regular cleaning. AirDefender’s Solar Panel Surface Solution offers a promising solution by forming an extra protective layer when applied to PV panels. This hydrophilic solution offers five years of minimal maintenance by making water spread thinly over each panel, carrying dust, dirt, bird droppings, etc., away when the water dries or is blown away by the wind, leaving no marks behind.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h3> <p>Solar panels are a clean way to produce energy, but their efficiency reduces when they accumulate layers of dust, dirt, and other particles. Solar farm operators face numerous challenges in keeping their panels clean, but solutions are available. The best approach might be to make the panels self-cleaning using special super-hydrophilic coatings, such as AirDefender’s Solar Panel Surface Solution. By addressing these challenges with innovative solutions, solar farms can maintain optimal efficiency and contribute effectively to the UK’s sustainable energy goals.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/solar-panel-cleaning-challenges-and-solutions-in-the-uk/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1568</post-id> </item> <item> <title>EXPERT GUIDE TO SELECTING A SOLAR PANEL CLEANINGSERVICE PROVIDER</title> <link>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/expert-guide-to-selecting-a-solar-panel-cleaningservice-provider/</link> <comments>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/expert-guide-to-selecting-a-solar-panel-cleaningservice-provider/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Albert Wong]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 07:57:41 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://airdefender.com/?p=1566</guid> <description><![CDATA[As a solar farm operator, the time will come when your PV panels require cleaning...]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>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.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Why Clean Your Solar Panels?</h4> <p>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.</p> <p>As dust layers build up on your solar panels, less sunlight reaches the cells, resulting in reduced electricity production. <a href="https://iea-pvps.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/IEA-PVPS-T13-21-2022-EXEC-SUMM-Soiling-Losses-PV-Plants.pdf">In Europe, dirty PV panels can lead to up to a 4% production loss, costing the industry up to 5 billion euros annually</a>.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Additionally, some solar panel manufacturers require regular cleaning as part of their product warranty terms.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges of Cleaning PV Panels on Solar Farms</h4> <p>While cleaning is essential for maintaining maximum efficiency, the process comes with challenges:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Large Surface Areas:</strong> Solar farms cover extensive areas, involving thousands of PV panels. Cleaning each panel properly can be difficult, especially with challenging topographies.</li> <li><strong>Solar Farm Designs:</strong> 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.</li> <li><strong>Environmental Factors:</strong> Weather conditions like strong winds and heavy rain can complicate cleaning efforts.</li></ul> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Professional Cleaning vs. In-House Cleaning</h4> <p>Solar farm operators must decide whether to handle cleaning in-house or hire a professional company.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>In-House Cleaning:</strong> 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.</li> <li><strong>Professional Cleaning Services:</strong> 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.</li></ul> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">What to Look for When Choosing a Solar Panel Cleaning Company</h4> <p>Selecting the best solar cleaning service provider ensures high value for costs. Key factors to consider include:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>Expertise and Experience:</strong> 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.</li> <li><strong>Quality of Service:</strong> 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.</li> <li><strong>Reputation:</strong> 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.</li> <li><strong>Environmental Considerations:</strong> Prioritize companies that use environmentally friendly materials, dispose of them responsibly, and adhere to industry-specific and environmental regulations.</li> <li><strong>Cleaning Technology:</strong> 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.</li></ul> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Self-Cleaning Solutions</h4> <p>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.</p> <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h4> <p>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.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/expert-guide-to-selecting-a-solar-panel-cleaningservice-provider/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1566</post-id> </item> <item> <title>ONE TO WATCH OUT FOR; FUTURE TRENDS AND TECHNOLOGIES IN UK INDUSTRIAL SOLAR PANEL CLEANING</title> <link>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/one-to-watch-out-for-future-trends-and-technologies-in-uk-industrial-solar-panel-cleaning/</link> <comments>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/one-to-watch-out-for-future-trends-and-technologies-in-uk-industrial-solar-panel-cleaning/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Albert Wong]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 07:41:24 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://airdefender.com/?p=1515</guid> <description><![CDATA[One of the most common solar panel maintenance services is cleaning...]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the most common solar panel maintenance services is cleaning. PV panel cleaning is so crucial that solar panel cleaning has become an industry in its own right. Similar to the original industry that it services, the solar cleaning sector has been evolving. In this article, we dive into the current and future directions of the solar cleaning industry, including emerging technologies.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Overview of the UK solar energy industry</h1> <p>The UK solar energy industry ended 2023 with an <a href="file:///D:/Documents/WeChat%20Files/wantianxiangnol/FileStorage/File/2024-05/114463abffa21fa2c1a8a3e0f7dce299_ae4bb92448864cf3533ed288d60107af_8.docx#:~:text=At%20the%20end%20of%202023%2C%20the%20cumulative%20installed%20capacity%20of%20solar%20power%20in%20the%20UK%20was%2015.7%20GW.">installed capacity of 15.7 GW</a>. The <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/896577/solar-pv-farm-capacity-united-kingdom-uk/">20 largest solar farms combined had an installed capacity of 938.1 MW</a> or the equivalent of millions of PV panels. These panels don’t self-clean and get dirty when exposed to the elements, affecting the electricity production efficiency of the farm.</p> <p>Between <a href="https://solarenergyuk.org/resource/solars-role-in-addressing-the-energy-crisis-path-to-2023-2030-2050/">Solar Energy UK’s projection of 40 GW of installed solar capacity by 2030</a> and the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/british-energy-security-strategy/british-energy-security-strategy">UK government’s target of 70 GW of solar capacity by 2030</a>, there will be even more millions of dirty solar panels needing to be cleaned.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">What does solar cleaning in the UK look like?</h1> <p>Cleaning photovoltaic panels traditionally involve manual labour, especially on large solar farms. The cleaning process requires that workers scrub on the panels with soft-bristled brushes or sponges with a mild soap solution.</p> <p>This manual process has multiple drawbacks. The major challenge is scalability. Solar farms contain thousands of PV panels spread over acres of land, making it difficult and time-consuming to reach each panel.</p> <p>Another challenge of manual solar module cleaning is the cost. <a href="https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/solar-panel-cleaning-cost/">Estimates run from £4 to £15 per panel</a>, depending on several factors, including location and number of panels. Most of the costs go toward labour, but they add up for solar farms containing thousands of panels.</p> <p>Solar farm operators also have to consider the environmental concerns of manual PV panel cleaning. This type of cleaning consumes a lot of water, a precious resource, with <a href="https://news.mit.edu/2022/solar-panels-dust-magnets-0311">estimates of 45 billion litres annually, enough to supply drinking water to 2 million people</a>. In addition, the chemicals in some soap solutions could be harsh on the environment.</p> <p>In addition, if not properly cleaned, the residues from the soap solution can trap more dirt and grime, forming a vicious cycle of cleaning and getting dirty again. The soap solution can also be harsh on sensitive components on the solar panels.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Solar panel cleaning technologies</h1> <p>The technology of solar panel cleaning services has evolved in three directions: automated systems, robotic systems, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Automated systems</h2> <p>As the name suggests, these systems do not require direct human intervention or labour to clean the panels. They are designed to self-operate efficiently at regular intervals. They could be brush-based, meaning a system of brushes that scrubs away dirt on the panels. Some automated systems are water sprinkler-based by using water to rinse off the dirt.</p> <p>Automated systems offer several advantages. They require minimal maintenance once installed, can work with minimal human intervention, and reduce the risk of injury during cleaning maintenance services. They can also be operated remotely.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Robotic cleaners</h2> <p>These types of cleaners use autonomous robot cleaners that crawl over the surface of the solar panels and remove dirt and debris. They are equipped with sophisticated sensors that allow the cleaning tools to adapt to different panels without damaging them.</p> <p>Robotic cleaners can remove dirt at scheduled intervals. They reduce labour costs, in addition to precision cleaning, as they can cover every inch of each panel while minimizing water use.</p> <p>The growing robotic cleaner trend is not mistakable, <a href="https://www.sphericalinsights.com/reports/europe-solar-panel-cleaning-robot-market">with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.11 percent predicted from 2022 (market size of $118.32 million) to 2032 ($282.92 million)</a> in Europe.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Eco-friendly cleaning solutions</h2> <p>Solar energy is a clean source of energy, hence, there is a focus on its impact on the environment. Solar farm operators have been adopting eco-friendly cleaning solutions that help to cut water consumption. They are made from biodegradable formulas that remove dirt and grime without damaging the panels or the environment.</p> <p>The use of eco-friendly cleaning solutions helps cut water usage, conserve the environment, and comply with the UK government’s sustainability goals.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Benefits of adopting innovative solar panel cleaning technologies</h1> <p>Solar farm operators generate more revenue when their PV panels are cleaned regularly. This is because the panels work at or near the maximum efficiency. However, apart from the improved electricity production, these technologies help in long-term savings as they extend the lifespan of the equipment.</p> <p>Other benefits include water conservation and, reduction in reliance on fossil fuels, hence, minimising carbon footprint. They also create employment opportunities as skilled workers are needed to develop, maintain, and use the system.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Trends in the solar panel cleaning sector</h1> <p>The solar panel cleaning sector is one to watch, especially for investors. The market was estimated at <a href="https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/solar-panel-cleaning-market">$560 million dollars with a projected 11 per cent CAGR through 2026</a>. This growth will be driven by the boom in commercial solar installation and focus on efficiency optimization to boost revenue (a reduction in solar output by <a href="https://news.mit.edu/2022/solar-panels-dust-magnets-0311">4 per cent could cost the solar industry up to $5.5 billion annually</a>) and more stringent government policies on environmental protection.</p> <p>In addition, technologies such as AI and cloud computing will improve the efficiency of automated and robot solar panel cleaning systems while reducing costs.</p> <p>Other emerging technologies include non-water-based solutions like electrostatic cleaning, which uses charges on the PV panels to attract and remove dust particles.</p> <p>Other solutions promise solar panels self-cleaning by harnessing nature. Eco-friendly solutions ensure consistent pristine surfaces by preventing dirt and other particles from sticking to solar panel surfaces and washing them away by rain and wind. They help to avoid the risks of panel scraping and abrasion due to other methods of cleaning PV panels.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h1> <p>The solar panel cleaning business will continue to grow in the UK, driven by factors such as a focus on production efficiency, more stringent environmental policies, and expansion in installed solar capacity. The future of the cleaning sub-sector will be shaped by emerging technologies such as self-cleaning and electrostatic cleaning solutions, AI, and cloud computing.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/one-to-watch-out-for-future-trends-and-technologies-in-uk-industrial-solar-panel-cleaning/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1515</post-id> </item> <item> <title>MAXIMIZING SOLAR POWER EFFICIENCY: WHY PV PANELCLEANINGIS IMPORTANT</title> <link>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/maximizing-solar-power-efficiency-why-pv-panelcleaningis-important/</link> <comments>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/maximizing-solar-power-efficiency-why-pv-panelcleaningis-important/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Albert Wong]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 07:39:01 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://airdefender.com/?p=1512</guid> <description><![CDATA[Solar panels produce electricity from the sunlight striking the cells. This means the more light hitting your PV panels...]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Solar panels produce electricity from the sunlight striking the cells. This means the more light hitting your PV panels, the more electricity your farm produces. However, left unattended, solar panels accumulate dirt or soiling on their surface, which may impact the quantity of electricity that you generate. In this article, we dive into the importance of PV panel cleaning, including why it is necessary, its benefits, and best practices.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">How do solar panels accumulate dirt?</h1> <p>Gleaming newly installed solar panels make for great photos. However, with time, the surface of the panels is covered in a film of dirt. If your farm is located in the UK, the soiling on your photovoltaic (PV) cells can come from several sources:</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Airborne dust and particles</h2> <p>Depending on the location of your solar farm, dust particles can be deposited on your PV panels by the wind, pollen, and other environmental debris. With time, these dust particles can grow into a layer that prevents sunlight from reaching the PV panels, affecting the solar power generated by your facility.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tree and plant sap, lichen, soot, and bird droppings</h2> <p>Solar farms are often sited close to vegetation. This proximity can introduce tree and plant sap that stick to your panels. Other organic materials like lichen and soot may also settle on the surface of your solar panels. At times, birds attracted to the vegetation surrounding your farm are the source of droppings that adhere to your panels and create shadings that block the cells from receiving sunlight.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rainwater and dust</h2> <p>Rainwater and dust can paradoxically cover your PV cells with dirt. Sometimes, rainwater mixes with fine dust to form a sticky slime. When it dries up, the slime may get heated up in direct sunlight, causing hotspots.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">The impact of dirt on a solar panel</h1> <p>Solar farm operators want their PV panels to produce energy at maximum efficiency. However, dirt buildup on solar panels negatively impacts the facility’s output. Some of these are:</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reduced energy production</h2> <p>Dust, soot, and other particulates can reduce solar panel efficiency. A dirt layer reduces the irradiance reaching the cells, thus causing a drop in performance. Studies have shown that soiling can cause up to 4 per cent annual loss in energy production in <a href="https://iea-pvps.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/IEA-PVPS-T13-21-2022-EXEC-SUMM-Soiling-Losses-PV-Plants.pdf">Europe</a> and up to 7 per cent in <a href="https://www.nrel.gov/news/features/2021/scientists-studying-solar-try-solving-a-dusty-problem.html">the US</a>. This figure could be as high as 50 per cent in the Middle East.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Increased cost of maintenance</h2> <p>Solar panels have to be cleaned regularly for them to continue working efficiently. This maintenance work can <a href="file:///D:/Documents/WeChat%20Files/wantianxiangnol/FileStorage/File/2024-05/ff2d7f23b4210b84825de40a50ff9208_b5e1342fde2fa59c5d7bd04f44fdcc34_8.docx#:~:text=A%20one%2Dtime,once%20a%20year.">attract a one-time cost of about $5,000 for a 10 MW farm</a> producing enough power for 2,000 households daily.</p> <p>While relatively rare, soiling introduces fire risks on PV panels. This can happen when dirt, bird droppings, or foliage lead to shading, causing hot spots that may lead to burning.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Financial impact</h2> <p>Apart from the maintenance cost of keeping PV panels clean, reduced efficiency can affect the farm’s bottom line. Producing less electricity due to a drop in efficiency means a loss in revenue, <a href="https://iea-pvps.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/IEA-PVPS-T13-21-2022-EXEC-SUMM-Soiling-Losses-PV-Plants.pdf">estimated to cost Europe up to five billion euros annually</a>. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Soiling cementation</h2> <p>Accumulated dirt can become much more difficult to remove if left unchecked. This process is known as cementation.</p> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">How often should PV panels be cleaned?</h1> <p>The frequency of the PV panel cleaning depends on multiple factors, including the site environment, the panel type, the type of installation, instructions from the manufacturers, etc. However, below are some general guidelines for cleaning your PV panels:</p> <p>1. Clean your panels at six-month intervals or at least once a year.</p> <p>2. Farms closer to urban areas or trees will require more frequent cleaning to get rid of dirt and grime.</p> <p>3. Solar farms in the UK cannot depend on rain to clean their panels.</p> <p>4. Some solar panel warranty conditions include regular cleaning.</p> <p>In conclusion, dirt layers on PV panels comes from multiple sources and can cause a drop in the power output of solar farms, in addition to increasing maintenance costs. Dirt should not be allowed to accumulate as it will become even more difficult to eliminate.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://airdefender.com/2024/07/19/maximizing-solar-power-efficiency-why-pv-panelcleaningis-important/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1512</post-id> </item> </channel></rss> If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:
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