ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

ECJ’s Christian Bouzols on a new cleaning sector that’s booming in France - solar panels.

The solar panel cleaning sector is booming, fuelled by the increase in photovoltaic installations in France. Thanks to some state subsidies (incentives, reduced VAT rate) and current regulations, this niche market is attracting more and more cleaning companies. Some are targeting small areas with conventional equipment, while others, such as Airia Services in Nantes and PH Plus in Ille-et-Vilaine, are investing in robotisation for larger areas.

Photovoltaic solar energy is a promising alternative solution for energy production. The Energy and Climate Act of 2019, followed by the Climate and Resilience Act of 2021 and the Aper Act of 2023, requires the installation of photovoltaic panels on new commercial and industrial buildings, increasing the demand for cleanliness. Especially since poorly cleaned panels can lead to a loss of production of between 20 and 30 per cent.

Aldric de Rosny of Airia Services points out that their business started in response to requests from municipalities seeking maintenance services. This market has grown thanks to the rapid growth of installations. As a result, solar projects are springing up on car parks and the roofs of various buildings, such as supermarkets and agricultural buildings - often motivated by environmental and economic reasons.

To meet specific cleaning needs, some companies are turning to robotisation. Airia Services, for instance, has invested in a robot for cleaning large areas, which saves time and makes work less strenuous. This robot, which can work on sloping roofs, uses purified water to avoid lime deposits.

Training necessary

Robotisation is not only a matter of efficiency, but also of standards and safety. Operations can be dangerous and specific training is needed to handle the equipment safely.

The market is buoyant, but investments in equipment such as aerial platforms and robots are essential to ensure productivity and meet the expectations of customers such as solar plant operators.

Training is also essential to ensure the safe and efficient use of equipment. Organisations such as INHNI offer specialised courses that combine technical skills and safety issues.

Overall, the solar panel cleaning niche is developing rapidly, fuelled by favourable regulations, the need for regular plant maintenance and technological innovation through robotisation.