Whether your business owns a single car or a fleet of vehicles, it’s highly likely that they undergo regular maintenance to reduce the risk of breakdowns. Neglecting to maintain them makes it likely that minor problems will be overlooked, which is bound to increase repair costs later.
In much the same way, Solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels need regular maintenance to ensure they operate at peak capacity. Because they are usually positioned at inaccessible heights, they often become ‘set-and-forget’ technology – but their ability to deliver tangible energy savings can be severely diminished if their maintenance is disregarded.
In this article, we’ll explain why commerical solar panel maintenace is essentail for your businesses efficenicy, sustainability and long term investment.
In a variable climate in which solar PV panels can be exposed to all types of weather, the accumulation of dust, dirt, and debris can have a significant impact on their ability to absorb sunlight and generate power. According to research carried out by a leading American university, a layer of dust on a solar panel can reduce output by as much as 30% in a month - underlining the important of regular cleaning. By simply removing dirt from your panels, you will ensure they can operate at peak performance and will improve the return on your investment.
Although highly durable and manufactured with longevity in mind, solar panels are not immune to damage, particularly with the surge in extreme weather in the UK. High winds can propel debris, such as loose mortar and small branches, against solar panels, while heavy rain, hail, and snow can weaken their structure, thus increasing the likelihood of cracks or other physical damage. Over time, electrical faults can also develop which, if left unattended, could cause your solar panels to fail. Regular inspections by experienced professionals will mean that problems are identified before they become more serious and facilitate prompt repairs or replacements.
A well-maintained solar energy system will not only save money but will also contribute to greater sustainability. A programme of scheduled maintenance will ensure optimum energy efficiency, minimising waste and reducing your business’s carbon footprint. Typically, the lifetime carbon emissions of solar panels are 12 times lower than those of electricity produced by gas plants and 20 times lower than coal-fired power. By maintaining your solar panels, your business will be able to showcase its ambitions to be cleaner, which could encourage environmentally aware customers and employees to your door.
Annual commercial solar panel maintenance is essential to protect your initial investment. Regular care ensures that your solar panels deliver consistent energy savings and environmental benefits for years to come. At Orion Technical Services, we offer tailored maintenance solutions to keep your system in prime condition, safeguarding both your financial returns and your commitment to sustainability.
To find out more about our solar panel maintenance services for businesses, or to request a free, no-obligation quotation, please call Orion Technical Services today on 029 2271 0772 or book a consultation.
Image Source: Canva