Ikea sells its own balcony power plant for self-assembly.
From this week on, Ikea stores will offer a DIY balcony solar power kit for a small price. It comes with a portable battery included.
Solar Energy Boom
The demand for solar energy is booming, leading to an increasing number of open spaces being covered with photovoltaic (PV) modules. However, for optimal electricity output, these installations require optimal maintenance from both the top and bottom.
Privileged Construction for PV Modules on Agricultural Land
Recently, photovoltaics on agricultural land of up to 2.5 hectares have been considered privileged in terms of construction law, eliminating the need for a building plan up to this size. Industry experts estimate that more areas will be used in this form in the future. Stephan Nieberl, a service provider from the Landshut region, is responsible for maintaining green spaces under the installations, with solar park operators already forming part of his regular client base.
Maintenance of Solar Parks: Keeping Vegetation Low
"It is crucial to keep the vegetation low in front of the module rows to prevent shading. Additionally, nothing should grow through the panels," says Nieberl. The inverter station and other important components must also be easily accessible for service personnel, which is why he ensures clean mowing in those areas.
Mowing Techniques and Equipment
Nieberl uses various mowing equipment such as a classic rotary mower from Fella, a double-blade bar from BB-Umwelttechnik, and a Forigo mulcher. Depending on the specific requirements of each installation, the equipment is attached to a Fendt 200 Vario tractor.
Future of Mowing with Robots
Nieberl is exploring the possibility of using autonomous technology for mowing under solar modules in the future. By integrating larger technology on-site, he believes that overseeing a robot could be a parallel task. The use of autonomous machines is facilitated by the fencing around solar parks, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Solar Panels
Regular cleaning of solar panels is essential, especially in the presence of significant sources of dirt. Various factors like dust, rubber abrasion, and soot can impact the efficiency of solar panels and lead to performance losses.
Importance of Water Quality in Cleaning
The quality of water used for cleaning is crucial to prevent residue formation and maintain the cleanliness of panels. A special osmosis filtration system is used to remove impurities from the water, ensuring a thorough and effective cleaning process.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
Experts recommend cleaning solar panels one to two times a year, with specific intervals based on environmental factors and regional conditions. Proper cleaning not only ensures optimal performance but also extends the lifespan of solar installations.