Solar energy is a sustainable energy source that provides a cost-effective alternative to fossil fuels. It plays a significant role in lowering energy bills, combating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As the world progresses, many industries and homesteads are adopting solar energy to power their day-to-day activities.
Technicians often install photovoltaic solar panels on the roofs of houses to ensure higher operational efficiency. However, birds like pigeons and jackdaws can mistake the raised area under the PV panels for an ideal breeding and nesting ground. Consequently, prolonged bird occupancy may lead to a build-up of dirt and debris, drastically affecting the efficacy and lifecycle of solar power systems.
Bird proofing solar panels helps to deter pest birds from roosting under them.
Why is Bird Proofing PV Systems Necessary?
Pigeons and jackdaws nesting under solar panels can be a nuisance. Their presence can also have adverse impacts on the performance of an installation. Here are four reasons why investing in a bird deterrent for solar panels is necessary.
Accumulation of bird dropping and debris.
The longer birds nest under solar panels, the more their droppings and debris from nests accumulate. Bird droppings are corrosive and foul-smelling. They also contain uric acid, which can permanently erode roofing material and solar panels. Additionally, the acidity poses a flammable danger to the PV system, while the twigs from their nests provide more combustible material for an insidious disaster.
Birds are a nuisance.
When pigeons, jackdaws and other birds set up their nests under solar panels, they can be a great source of noise nuisance. Their chirping and movement on the rooftops can be irritating and frustrating, even giving house owners sleepless nights. Pigeons nesting under solar panels may also peck the installation and dislodge wiring systems, interrupting the flow of the circuit. As a result, investors will have to incur high maintenance and repair costs to undo the damage.
Health hazard
Birds carry a lot of bacteria and diseases with them. Their feathers and droppings may host infectious pathogens like E. coli, Psittacosis and Salmonella. The microorganisms can infect humans in close contact, triggering allergies, respiratory issues and other illnesses. In addition, when it rains, the bacteria in accumulated bird droppings can drain into gutters and contaminate the water systems of a household.
Reduced energy output
Bird activity under solar panels can have an overall knock-on effect on the output of a solar power installation. The accumulation of debris on and under the panels may prevent sunlight from optimally reaching the photovoltaic cells. Consequently, up to a third of the energy output from the system may be lost, causing high energy bills.
Bird Proofing Services
Evidently, pigeon proofing solar panels is essential for ensuring their optimal productivity. It also maximizes the lifecycle of the PV system, enabling homeowners to minimize their energy consumption and expenses. Additionally, deterring birds from nesting under solar panels prevents hazards such as diseases and fire outbreaks.
