02 Dec Bird and rodent protection systems for solar panels

Solar systems, photovoltaic or thermal, being open-air structures, are exposed not only to the elements, for which they are already prepared, but also to local fauna that is found everywhere, especially birds and rodents. Birds can perch on structures or seek shelter and refuge under photovoltaic solar fields, especially on roofs with a coplanar anchoring system; rodents can also find a suitable environment under the panels. To avoid possible damage to photovoltaic systems, there are various protection solutions. Here is a summary of the most common systems and their characteristics:

1. Bird protection:

Birds can perch on and, in some cases, nest among the photovoltaic panels, which can cause several problems, such as obstruction of electrical connections, damage to the panels and the accumulation of droppings, which will affect the efficiency of the system, or they can nest or shelter under the coplanar structures of the solar photovoltaic system.

Solutions for bird protection:

• Protective nets: Nets are installed around the perimeter of the photovoltaic system to prevent birds from entering the space beneath the panels. This method is widely used especially in photovoltaic solar fields on the ground or at a certain angle of inclination. These nets are effective at keeping birds away, but must be fine enough to prevent any small animals from getting in.
• Metal spacers or guards:  In coplanar systems, these are placed around the base of the panels to prevent birds from entering the space below. These devices, which are often made of metal wire or plastic, also prevent birds from nesting.
• Deterrent devices:  In the case of large solar fields, there are devices that emit noises or flashing lights to scare birds away. Some use sounds of birds of prey or high-frequency sounds that are annoying to birds but inaudible to humans.
• Thermal control systems:  These systems are rarely used due to their high electrical consumption and installation costs. They regulate the temperature of the solar panel using heating or radiation processes to discourage birds from nesting or perching there.

2. Rodent protection:

Rodents such as mice and rats can find shelter under solar panels, where they can chew through cables, cause short circuits or damage the installation. Rodents can also pose a risk to local wildlife and humans, as they can cause health problems.

Rodent protection solutions:

• Physical barriers (screens or grates): Heavy-duty metal screens or grates can be installed to prevent rodents from entering the space beneath the panels. These barriers should be small enough to keep rodents out, but durable enough to withstand the elements.
• Electronic repellents: Ultrasonic repellents emit high-frequency sounds that are annoying to rodents but inaudible to humans. These devices can be installed near photovoltaic installations to deter rodents from approaching.
• Surveillance cameras: Surveillance cameras can be useful in identifying points where rodents enter and allowing appropriate preventative measures to be taken.
• Baits and traps: Although not a direct solution to protecting photovoltaic systems, in areas where rodents are common, baits and traps can be used to reduce the population of these animals before they cause damage.

3. Our recommendation:

• Regular Inspection: It is important to carry out regular inspections of photovoltaic systems to detect signs of damage or the presence of animals, such as bird droppings or rodents, this can be done when performing regular maintenance cleaning of the photovoltaic solar field, at least once a year.
• Facility design: Panels should be installed in a way that minimizes open spaces beneath them, as animals tend to seek shelter in dark, enclosed areas. Proper structure design can help prevent wildlife entry.

Conclusion:

To protect photovoltaic systems from damage caused by birds and rodents, it is necessary to implement specific protection solutions such as nets, deterrent devices, physical barriers and other systems. In addition, it is crucial to carry out regular maintenance and assess the installation environment to ensure that wildlife does not interfere with the efficiency and safety of the system.

At Electricidad Soma Gen Power we are solar panel installers in Lleida and the rest of Spain, specialists in solar energy and aerothermal energy and conscientious in maintenance. We invite you to visit our installations section to learn about some of our work.

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