Standards and regulations governing the cleaning of solar panels

The challenges of the energy transition are leading to strong growth in the number of renewable energy production facilities. With the increasing number of solar panels installed worldwide, the maintenance of these systems has become a major issue. To ensure optimal performance and extend their lifespan, regular cleaning of solar panels is essential. However, this task must be carried out professionally, and in compliance with the standards and regulations in force. In this article, discover the main regulatory frameworks governing this field, the importance of compliance for industry professionals, and the consequences of non-compliance. As a bonus, discover a key player in the solar panel cleaning sector.

General Framework of Standards and Regulations

The general framework of standards and regulations related to solar panel cleaning is based on technical and environmental principles. These aim to establish best practice criteria for safe and effective operations on these devices.

Applicable International Standards

In the field of solar panel cleaning, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards are essential benchmarks. These two standards respectively cover quality management and environmental management.

The ISO 9001 standard sets out the requirements for implementing a quality management system within an organization. When applied, it enables cleaning companies to establish efficient processes to ensure service quality and customer satisfaction.

The ISO 14001 standard provides a framework to help businesses reduce their environmental impact while continuously improving their resource management efficiency. For solar panel cleaning, it encourages the use of eco-friendly methods.

Specific Standards Related to Solar Panels and Their Maintenance

In Europe, various standards apply to solar installations. However, the IEC standard specifically applies to monocrystalline and polycrystalline photovoltaic modules. It is used to certify their quality and durability against weather factors such as humidity, UV, frost, and high temperatures. While not directly focused on cleaning, this standard provides a reference framework for understanding the constraints related to maintaining this equipment.

Local and National Regulations

Regulations for solar panel cleaning vary from country to country. In Europe, environmental directives are strict, especially regarding the use of chemicals and water management. In the United States, regulations may differ by state, although they generally follow federal guidelines. In Asia (Japan and China), specific rules have been implemented to ensure effective panel maintenance.

Environmental Regulations Specific to Cleaning

Environmental regulations have been established to reduce the ecological impact of solar panel cleaning techniques. These regulations impose requirements concerning:

• water resource management
• limits on water consumption in arid areas
• recycling of used water
• use of chemical products
• bans on substances harmful to the environment
• management of generated waste
• collection and treatment of wastewater containing residues
• impact on soil and groundwater in case of spillage

Cleaning equipment that uses chemical-free methods is particularly encouraged. For example, machines using Pure Water technology clean solar panels effectively using demineralized water. This water dissolves dirt and dries naturally without leaving white marks that could harm solar panel productivity.

The Role of Maintenance in Solar System Performance and Durability

Like any device or equipment, photovoltaic and solar installations require maintenance to operate efficiently for many years. Rainwater alone is not sufficient to clean them properly, allowing dirt to build up and become embedded over time.

Such buildup can reduce your system’s energy output by 15% within the first year, as it blocks sunlight from reaching the panels. Neglecting maintenance can therefore lead to significant financial losses.

Regular cleaning of solar panels is therefore essential to maintain productivity, performance, durability, and above all, profitability.

Why Understanding Standards and Regulations Is Essential for Industry Professionals

Understanding and applying standards and regulations related to solar panel cleaning is crucial for professionals in the renewable energy sector. An informed professional is better equipped to deliver high-quality services aligned with best practices: safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Moreover, compliance ensures installation safety, boosting both the company’s reputation and its market competitiveness.

Legal and Economic Implications of Non-Compliance for Companies

Compliance with solar panel cleaning standards and regulations must not be taken lightly, as non-compliance can result in serious legal and financial consequences:

• administrative and financial penalties: fines, suspension of activities
• damage to brand image and company reputation, potentially resulting in customer loss
• civil liability lawsuits in case of environmental damage, damage to the installation, or third-party harm

Professionals must be well-informed and trained to navigate this complex and constantly evolving regulatory landscape. Staying compliant with technical and environmental requirements in solar panel cleaning offers several advantages:

• easy access to certain markets requiring certification
• eligibility for grants or financial aid for businesses engaged in sustainable practices

Qleen: A Trusted Partner in Cleaning Equipment

In this regulatory context, professionals in solar panel cleaning must use high-quality equipment. Qleen-By-GUIALTO offers equipment tailored to the demands of the industry. Known for its expertise in cleaning equipment manufacturing, the company provides a range of solutions to support professionals: telescopic poles, high-quality cleaning brushes, and Pure Water machines. Their equipment allows for:

• Environmental compliance: Qleen equipment uses Pure Water for effective cleaning without chemicals. Using chemical-free equipment helps reduce the risk of breaching environmental standards.
• Safety compliance: Telescopic poles allow operators to clean safely from the ground. The lightweight design (carbon and titanium) reduces operator fatigue, especially on large solar panel farms. This ensures optimal safety and regulatory compliance.
• Quality service: A major risk in cleaning is damaging the solar panel installation. Using high-quality equipment reduces this risk and improves service reliability. Qleen's brushes clean effectively without damaging glass, panels, or cladding, thanks to color-coded fiber types.
• Guaranteed customer service: Cleaning services are recurring over the years. A satisfied client is one who keeps returning. Investing in high-quality machines offers quick returns.

In addition to being versatile, Qleen-By-GUIALTO equipment is simple and practical to use. The technology used minimizes breakdowns, repairs, and customer service needs, even under intensive use.