Practical tips for clean PV systems
For operators of commercial and industrial PV systems
Photovoltaics continue to be in strong demand in Germany—especially in industry. With a 23.2% share of electricity generation from renewable energy sources, solar energy, alongside wind power, is one of the most important pillars of the energy transition. But as the technology grows, practical questions arise: How can solar panels on large roof systems be cleaned efficiently and safely? What cleaning equipment is available? We show the dos and don’ts of automated solar cleaning with robots.
"For large PV systems, there isn't a single cleaning solution for every situation. It's crucial to adapt cleaning methods, robot settings, and water supply to the system and the specific degree of contamination."
Cleaning robots are indispensable in modern facility cleaning operations. The same applies to the cleaning of large PV systems. Here, solar cleaning robots particularly excel due to their high efficiency and environmental compatibility – because the high rotation of the brushes ensures an optimal cleaning effect without health-hazardous and environmentally harmful chemicals. Furthermore, if you clean with osmosis water instead of conventional water, the positive effect is maximized.
For the regular cleaning of the solar installation with the PV cleaning robot to be efficient and safe, several important points must be observed:
Would you like to learn more about the possibilities of a cleaning robot or our cleaning systems? Then please contact us; we would be happy to advise you!
Whether it’s an agricultural rooftop system, a commercial roof or a large solar park—the economically optimal cleaning solution depends on system size, location and degree of soiling. Together, we analyze your system and recommend the right cleaning concept.
Our cleaning solutions at a glance
solarROBOT compact
For agricultural as well as small and medium rooftop systems up to approx. 200 kWp. The cleaning robot can be used independently by the system operator and is supplied including a charging station. CE-certified and developed specifically for cost-effective in-house operation.
solarROBOT pro
For medium-sized commercial and ground-mounted systems. With a working width of up to 2 meters and semi-automated operation, the solarROBOT Pro is ideal for efficient cleaning of larger module areas.
solarROBOT ultimate
For large-scale systems and ground-mounted projects. With a working width of 2.4 meters, maintenance-free chain drive and high area performance, the solarROBOT Ultimate was developed for professional use on large PV systems.
solarBRUSH 600
The handheld cleaning solution for special constructions, complex roof geometries and professional cleaning service providers. Ideal for applications where cleaning robots cannot be used due to the design.
For agricultural as well as small and medium rooftop systems up to approx. 200 kWp. The cleaning robot can be used independently by the system operator and is supplied including a charging station. CE-certified and developed specifically for cost-effective in-house operation.
For large-scale systems and ground-mounted projects. With a working width of 2.4 meters, maintenance-free chain drive and high area performance, the solarROBOT Ultimate was developed for professional use on large PV systems.
The handheld cleaning solution for special constructions, complex roof geometries and professional cleaning service providers. Ideal for applications where cleaning robots cannot be used due to the design.
All systems clean without chemicals or soap using pure water and enable gentle, material-friendly cleaning of PV systems.
We analyze your system portfolio, calculate your individual cleaning needs and recommend the economically optimal cleaning concept—from a single system to a multi-site park.
Even light soiling can cause a 5–20% drop in performance—on large systems, that can quickly amount to several thousand euros per year.
Calculate your loss here.
As soon as there is a measurable loss of yield or visible soiling. For commercial systems, cleaning often pays off after just one season.
Generally every 12–24 months. In dust-intensive regions or in agriculture/industry, often more frequently.
Yes—especially for rooftop systems. Fall risk, module breakage, and liability issues make professional methods advisable.
Depending on size and soiling, usually between €2–€6 per square meter
Robots move autonomously over the modules, brush the surface, and use water or dry methods—consistently and gently on materials.
Calculate your individual yield loss with the hyCLEANER solar loss calculator.
We recommend the economically right cleaning concept for your system.
How much does a dirty solar system cost? Example calculations for agriculture, commercial roofs and ground-mounted systems – incl. yield losses and cleaning intervals.
Find out which photovoltaic cleaning brushes are suitable for different systems and what matters when it comes to material, bristles and gentle cleaning.
Why is the maintenance of a PV system so important? Expert Pascal Kierstein explains how cleaning, monitoring, and maintenance secure yield and profitability.
