How and When Should Solar Power Plant (SPP) Cleaning Be Done?

Cleaning According to Seasonal Transitions

Spring: In spring, plant pollen, flower dust, and rainwater pollutants can quickly dirty the panels. It is essential to clean the panels, especially at the beginning of the pollen season, which typically occurs in March and April. The cleaning process should use equipment that won’t scratch the panels, and only purified water without chemicals should be used, as pollen can be easily removed with water.

Summer: In the summer, dust and sandstorms can accumulate on the panels, and the high temperatures cause dirt to stick more easily. Cleaning should occur after dust storms or summer rains, ideally during the early morning or late evening hours. The cleaning equipment should not damage the panels.

Autumn: During the autumn months, falling leaves, rain, and wind can lead to dirt accumulation. Especially in October and November, when leaf shedding is at its peak, cleaning should be done. Organic debris like leaves can reduce panel efficiency.

Winter: In winter, snow, ice, and heavy rainfall can cover the panel surfaces. After the snow melts, dirt buildup is common. Cleaning should occur after snow melts, but hot water should not be used to remove ice or snow.

Cleaning According to Regional Pollutants

Industrial Areas: In industrial regions, air pollution, chemical particles, and smoke can accumulate on the panels and reduce efficiency. Cleaning should be done monthly or whenever noticeable pollution is observed. Due to the chemical nature of pollutants, careful cleaning is required in these areas.

Rural and Agricultural Areas: In rural and agricultural zones, dust and organic materials from soil and farming activities can dirty the panels. Cleaning should be done after harvest periods and during increased dust conditions from soil activities.

Coastal Areas: In coastal regions, salty water vapor, sand, and other marine particles can accumulate on the panels, leading to corrosion and dirt buildup. Cleaning should occur seasonally or when significant salt and sand accumulation is observed. To effectively clean salt deposits, purified water and, when necessary, special cleaning solutions should be used.

General Cleaning Recommendations

Safety precautions should be taken during cleaning, including using safe ladders and harnesses for accessing high places.

For large-scale SPPs, professional equipment should be used for cleaning and maintenance. Cleaning and maintenance procedures should be regularly documented and analyzed.

Solar panel cleaning should be done regularly and carefully according to seasonal transitions and regional pollutants. This ensures panel efficiency and longevity. Cleaning should be performed at the right times and with the appropriate methods.