By TEL AVIV, Israel — Capping off what has been a fantastic year for Ecoppia, First Solar today certified the autonomous, waterless cleaning technology for use on solar sites deploying First Solar’s PV modules.
Reached for comment, Ecoppia CEO Eran Meller said, “It’s another validation of the strength of our solution while allowing us to move forward in our goal of being the industry standard for PV cleaning. We’re very pleased to receive a vote of confidence from a tier-1 industry player like First Solar.”
Ecoppia’s waterless robotic cleaning technology has gone from strength to strength in 2015, gaining certifications from the industry’s biggest panel manufacturers, including Trina Solar, Suntech, and JA Solar. The most recent certification from First Solar further extends the market coverage of Ecoppia, already by far the market leader.
The advent of autonomous cleaning robots operating via mobile uplink, providing consistent cleaning on a nightly basis, has been a sharp contrast to water and brush-based solutions that have been the industry standard for years. The contrast is also visible in balance sheets, with the uplift in solar output provided by Ecoppia’s solution translating to increased revenues for site owners.
In a recent release Ecoppia was noted by industry consulting firm PI Berlin, and has passed 100% of their accelerated stress tests for 20 years’ worth of daily cleanings. Where traditional solutions have failed PI Berlin’s tests by opting for abrasive brushes, Ecoppia’s solution uses an industry-disrupting microfiber that is safe and effective for panel cleaning over the long term.
“Panel makers and solar site owners were without a good cleaning solution for a long time,” says Meller. “With Ecoppia, we’re simply addressing a market need – we’re excited that the industry is responding so positively.”
About Ecoppia
Ecoppia is dedicated to maximizing solar park value creation by increasing output and lowering production overhead. The company’s autonomous, water-free, field-proven solar array cleaning solution cost-effectively keeps photovoltaic panels at peak performance, even in the toughest desert conditions, cleaning five million solar panels every month. Privately-held, Ecoppia is backed by experienced major international investment funds and led by energy and robotics experts, with broad and multidisciplinary experience and proven records of success in operations, management, engineering and product development.
About First Solar
First Solar is a global leader in photovoltaic (PV) solar energy solutions. With more than 10 gigawatts (GW) installed worldwide, First Solar has developed, financed, engineered, constructed and currently operates many of the world’s largest grid-connected PV power plants. By integrating technologies, services and expertise across the entire solar value chain, First Solar delivers bankable PV energy solutions that enable a world powered by reliable and affordable solar electricity.
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