Birds and solar panels
Birds and solar panels have recently become more of a common problem throughout the UK since the surge in eco energy and government grants for free solar panel installations. The most common problems that are reported are birds nesting under solar panels. Birds nesting under solar panels are a relatively new but common problem as the roof mounted solar modules offer a sheltered and warm environment that pests will often take advantage of.
Damaged Solar panels
The birds nesting under the solar panel can cause an array of issues other than just the fouling mess they cause. Bird droppings can build up when they fly over or perch on the solar panels – a single large deposit will shade the cells to such an extent that it can reduce a module’s efficiency by 30% which will have a knock-on effect on the overall efficiency of the whole system output costing you money.
Corrosive effects of bird mess
The corrosive effects of the bird mess should also not be overlooked; on panels without the correct Ammonia and Salt Water test certificates, any droppings on the frame will compromise the aluminium leading to a dramatically increased rate of corrosion, damaging the solar panels permanently.
Solar Panels not working
Pigeons nesting under the solar panels can dislodge wiring and stop the solar panel system working altogether. If pigeons nesting under the solar panels are left they can also cause long term damage and potential fires. It’s always best to get a professional survey carried out first. Especially if you believe birds are nesting under the solar panels.
Pests under my solar panels
It is important to be aware of the animals that share your roof area in order to prevent damage to your array – squirrels and other pests have also been known to dislodge and chew wiring that will result in expensive maintenance. Thus preventative measures to control pests is much more cost-effective solution
Solar Panels and pigeons health hazards
Having birds nesting under the solar panels can also carry with it a number of health hazards as bird fouling contains many bacteria and insects which are harmful to man. These associated insects can also spread to the internal areas of the building if not appropriately treated.
Self-cleaning solar panels?
Many panel manufacturers highlight the module’s self-cleaning ability, this however only covers the atmospheric dust and dirt which will be washed away by rainwater – not bird droppings.
Solar Panel pigeon proofing
Solar Panel pigeon Proofing is a specialist service that Opkill are able to offer to prevent pigeons nesting under the solar panels. The Bird proofing System includes a combination of mesh and clips which are easy to install, requiring no drilling which will not compromise the integrity of the solar panel system. The bird proofing materials used for solar panels can range however we normally use a 19 gauge, 25mm x 12.5mm galvanized mesh. The installation will use UV stable polycarbonate clips which are designed to fit on the inside lip of the panel without scratching the surface. The clips are fitted two to each corner and then at 500mm points in between. The installation of 19 Gauge 25mm x 12.5mm Galvanized mesh to prevent the birds from infesting this area. The Mesh will enclose the affected area
and deny the bird’s access. This can also entail installing steel fixings / solar clips at every corner and at 500mm intervals in between.
With the birds nesting under the solar panels will also create a lot of mess therefore is it required that we Treat all bulk bird fouling and related materials with Biocide, to render it inert. Any injured or young flightless birds found during the works will be humanely dispatched as once handled they will not be fed or nurtured by the remaining flock and will perish.
Access
In order to reduce cost of scaffolding or cherry pickers Opkill can provide a specialized rope access team and this is normally the preferred method in completing solar panel pigeon proofing. This means no need to wait for erection and dismantling of scaffolding or a worry about clearance for transport.
Book a Survey
Our specialist team can advise on the best method in dealing with your pest problem. If you require solar panel pigeon proofing because you believe you have birds nesting under the solar panels or if you are looking for an alternative/permanent solution other than just bird netting for solar panels then please give one of our team a call.