The cleaning of large-scale solar power plants has undergone rapid changes in industry guidelines. While initially there was no perceived need for cleaning, today there is no doubt that cleaning has a significant impact on the performance of PV plants, and countless cleaning solutions have been developed.

The accumulation of soiling such as dirt, cement dust, rust, hard water stains, and other contaminants reduces the performance of photovoltaic panels, and without improved cleaning, energy production decreases, leading to revenue losses for asset managers and owners. Soiling-related performance losses are estimated at 2 to 5% per year worldwide, representing more than €4 billion in annual losses. In large-scale photovoltaic plants, even a 2% loss justifies the cost of cleaning.

Determining the best way to clean solar panels in large-scale plants is essential to optimize cleaning time and increase system throughput.

A wide range of cleaning equipment is available, including brushes, rotating systems, and robotic solutions, each with specific advantages and limitations depending on the plant’s size and layout. In many cases, a combination of different technologies is needed to achieve effective cleaning.

For large solar farms, tractor-based cleaning systems are commonly used due to the scale of the installations and the need for efficiency.

In this article, we highlight the Top 5 cleaning systems for ground mounted PV plants, with a focus on their manufacturer’s claimed capabilities and advanced cleaning technology.

TrackFlex by SunBrush

The SunBrush® mobil TrackFlex is a highly agile and maneuverable cleaning solution developed specifically for tracker-based photovoltaic systems.

Tracker systems significantly improve energy yield by following the sun throughout the day, but their continuously changing tilt angles and orientations introduce serious challenges when it comes to cleaning. The TrackFlex system was engineered precisely to overcome these obstacles.

At the core of the TrackFlex is an articulated arm and a fully flexible brush, capable of moving in multiple directions. This allows the system to maintain consistent contact with the module surface, regardless of orientation or inclination.

Thanks to the TrackFlex Effect, operators can adjust the boom angle to drive closer to the modules, making it ideal for narrow rows with spacing as low as 2.4 meters. The system supports full wet cleaning, with integrated water lines and joystick-controlled pre-soaking and rinsing.

Key Features:

• Designed specifically for tracker PV systems
• Articulated arm with multi-directional brush movement
• WashTronic System for automatic level equalisation
• 180° hydraulic swivel for left- and right-side cleaning
• Integrated wet cleaning with joystick-controlled soaking and rinsing
• Foldable transport position for safe mobility
• Can-Bus joystick control from vehicle cab

B1 by SolarCleanO

The B1 is a fully robotic, high-speed solution for utility-scale solar farms. Known as SolarBridge, it is the fastest solar cleaning robot on the market, reaching up to 40 meters per minute, with a daily cleaning capacity of 7–20 MW per robot, depending on brush size and farm layout.

Its adaptive brush system allows it to automatically track panel inclination, tilts, and terrain changes, ensuring gentle but thorough cleaning. Operators benefit from battery-powered autonomy of around 8 hours, with a simple connection to standard garden hoses (13–15 mm diameter, 2–8 bar pressure).

Key Features:

• Helicoidal brushes (2.8 m or 5 m) with two bristle types, suitable for thin-film and traditional panels
• Wet and dry cleaning
• Adaptive brush adjustment up to 36° tilt
• Central electric switching box with lithium-ion batteries
• Fully safe, advanced security systems for operator and panel protection
• Single-operator setup for a large farm

D2 Model by SCM – Solar Cleaning Machinery

The D2 Model is a tractor-operated hydraulic arm system equipped with a self-adjusting brush. Its design ensures no weight is applied to panels, which prevents damage while maintaining high cleaning efficiency.

Controlled via a wireless joystick, the D2 can navigate rough terrain, overcome module gaps, and handle antennas without interference. It supports both wet and dry cleaning, making it versatile for a variety of farm layouts.

Key Features:

• Quick coupling to tractor three-point connection
• Wireless joystick for precise control
• Automatic end-of-line detection and night operation
• Adjustable sensors for accurate brush positioning
• Rough terrain regulation and jump configuration

Eagle by SunBrush

The SunBrush Mobile Eagle is a narrow and lightweight solution designed for tightly built solar parks and narrow aisles. It features the WashTronic system for automatic leveling and the TrackFlex effect, which adjusts the boom angle for closer access to modules in challenging conditions.

Equipped with a fully extendable arm and dual cleaning paths, the Eagle can clean both the upper surface and lower edge of modules with precision. Its versatility allows integration with various carrier vehicles, including crawlers, for maximum accessibility.

Key Features:

• 280° hydraulically swivelable cleaning motor for left/right-side cleaning
• Joystick control panel (Can-Bus) for safe, intuitive operation
• Wet cleaning with joystick-controlled water lines
• Transport position with foldable hydraulic arm
• Ideal for narrow, tightly packed solar arrays

E1 by Solarcleano

The E1 combines vehicle-mounted convenience with robotic brush adaptability. Designed for large-scale solar plants, it is mounted on the rear of a 4x4 vehicle and controlled via a wired keypad, allowing a single operator to manage both the vehicle and cleaning process.

Its adaptive brush inclination automatically adjusts to panel height and tilt, including tracking systems with shafts, while the rotation range of 210° ensures comprehensive coverage. This system has been tested to ensure no microcracks appear on panels after cleaning, making it safe for delicate solar technology.

Key Features:

• Wet and dry cleaning capability
• Adaptive brush pressure to avoid damage
• Brush rotation range: 210°
• Battery-powered operation with automated brush adjustment
• Operates efficiently over uneven terrain and panel gaps

Optimizing Cleaning for Maximum Efficiency

Choosing the right cleaning brush depends on farm layout, panel type, and terrain. Automated robots like the B1 offer unmatched efficiency and minimal operator intervention, while tractor-assisted solutions such as the Trackflex and the D2 excel in rough terrain and narrow installations are the perfect scenario for equipment such as the Eagle and the E1.

By integrating the right combination of robotic, tractor-mounted, and compact brushes, solar park operators can maintain high energy production, extend the life of modules, and increase cleaning efficiency and quality.

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