HAALA Energy introduced SolarCleano B1 as part of its O&M services for utility-scale PV installations, in partnership with SolarCleano
The bridge-type robot supports both wet and dry cleaning, with brush lengths ranging from 2.8 to 5 m and automatic adjustment to module inclination
SolarCleano also offers the automated B1A variant, which uses LiDAR for tracking and adjustment without a manual operator
Saudi Arabia-based EPC and O&M company HAALA Energy, in partnership with Luxembourg-based robotics company SolarCleano, introduced SolarCleano B1 as part of its O&M services for utility-scale installations. SolarCleano offers robotic solar panel cleaning solutions mainly for C&I and utility-scale installations.
Also termed SolarBridge by the company, SolarCleano B1 is a controlled robot with wheels on either side of the installed module row, with a bridge-like structure on top. Under the bridge is the cleaning system with helicoidal brushes, which can hang at different heights and inclinations depending on the installed system. The brushes come in 2.8 to 5 m dimensions with two bristle types suitable for various glass surfaces and for both wet and dry cleaning. The robot is compatible with a standard garden hose of 13-15 mm diameter, delivering a water pressure of 2-8 bar for wet cleaning, and consuming water at a rate of 0.5 L/m².
SolarCleano B1 has an automatic tracking system that self-adapts to the system’s height and inclination, with a maximum tilt of up to 36°. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, the robot can operate for 8 hours during cleaning. It is also equipped with solar panels on the top for extended power. Under continuous operation, it can cover 40 m per minute and clean up to 20 MW per day with a single human operator.
The robot comes in 3 different sizes: small, medium, and large, indicated by B1S, B1M, and B1L, depending on the maintenance needs. SolarCleano B1L measures 7,020 x 2,200 x 3,810 mm and weighs 1,250 kg. The brush length is 5 m and the diameter is 0.38 m. With an adjustable pressure on the panels, the brush inclination can be set between -10° and 32°. The robot is controlled by a remote control that can function from a maximum distance of 100 m.
The product also has an automated variant called SolarCleano B1A, which doesn’t need a human operator. It is equipped with LiDAR technology for full automation, intelligent tracking, and adjustments. It can operate continuously for up to 10 hours and can clean a PV system of similar capacity as the B1.
