Solar panels work by allowing light into the cells within the panel. When solar panels get dirty, it creates shading on the cells which then reduces output. Solar panels can get dirty from traffic film, bird droppings, bee pollen and other forms of detritus.

When you clean your solar panels, you remove whatever is blocking the light hitting the cells and output and revenue increases.

Your solar panels will get lichen grow on them after a period of time, create hotspots and reduce output. Lichen is difficult and costly to remove from solar panels due to access issues. It is much cheaper to clean your solar panels regularly than it is to have the lichen grow and have need to have it removed. If left, hotspots caused by lichen will cause cell deterioration and lead to eventual failure. This will render the panel useless and then it will need to be replaced.

No. Solar panel cleaning carries an inherent electrocution risk. Only let a window cleaner clean your panels if they can provide you with the following:

1. Valid public liability insurance with 'solar panel cleaning'in the wording.

2. A risk assessment and method statement (RAMS) explaining the risks and knowledge of how to protect themselves from electrocution.

3. Evidence of training.

The only time that we will need to increase the cost is if your array cannot be accessed from the ground. bird proofed using standard tower scaffold or a cherry picker. An example may be if your solar panels are located on the side of your roof and it is close to the neighbouring property. There may be an additional fee to cover scaffolding or cherry picker access, which will need to be discussed and agreed prior to any commitment on your part. We may need a photograph of your property to assess the correct access.