Schletter develops module cleaning system for commercial rooftop applications

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

German-based Schletter GmbH has developed a novel cleaning system for PV module rooftop installations. The PVSpin is designed to be operated safely by one person and employs twin rotating brush heads fed with water through a central nozzle. 

Problem

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The degree of efficiency of a photovoltaic plant does not only depend on the intensity of the sun, but also on the degree of soiling of the modules. The self-cleaning of the photovoltaic modules by rain is possible, however in dusty environments such as on agricultural buildings, regular cleaning reduces energy degradation due to a build-up of soiling material. In most cases, such cleaning operations are carried out using a telescopic rod with a cleaning brush on top of it. Unfortunately, this cleaning method is not suitable for all kinds of photovoltaic plants and is also very time-consuming.

Solution

The new cleaning device PvSpin promises more flexibility and economic efficiency. It works on the basis of two cleaning brushes rotating in opposite directions that are only driven by water pressure and remove soiling material in a quick and material-protecting manner. Hard dirt formation is removed by the rotation of the brushes and the filtered water. The guidance along the module frames makes cleaning operations more convenient.

Applications

Commercial rooftop PV module power plants.

Platform

As the complete device only weighs only about 15kg, it can be let down from the ridge and then can be ergonomically operated by one person. 

Availability

From April 2011 onwards.
 

Read Next

September 8, 2025
German inverter manufacturer SMA Solar is to restart US manufacturing for the first time in ten years.
September 8, 2025
Euclid Power has raised US$20 million Series A round led by Venrock to develop AI-driven platform and services for renewables. 
September 8, 2025
Georgia Power has certified five new solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) within its borders, for a combined capacity of just over 1GW.
September 8, 2025
Elmya Energy and Atlantica have formed a joint venture to develop 4GW of utility-scale renewable energy projects in the US. 
September 8, 2025
France has awarded 971MW of ground-mount solar capacity, to 165 projects, in the eighth round of the PPE2 PV tender.
Premium
September 8, 2025
Analysis: The first new product in Nextracker's eBOS portfolio aims for greater standardisation and speed of installation.

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
September 16, 2025
Athens, Greece
Solar Media Events
September 30, 2025
Seattle, USA
Solar Media Events
October 1, 2025
London, UK
Solar Media Events
October 2, 2025
London,UK
Solar Media Events
October 7, 2025
Manila, Philippines