Pigeons under solar power plants: Problems & economic damage
Why pigeons nest under solar power plants
Safe shelter: Protected from wind, rain and predators.
- ☀️ Warmth: The modules heat up in the sun, ideal for incubation.
- Structure: Frames and gaps provide support for nests.
- Quiet place: Minimal human disturbance on rooftops.
Reproduction of pigeons
- Breeding pairs: 2-3 broods per year.
- Eggs per brood: 1–2 eggs (average 2).
- Young people per year: Approximately 4-6 viable young pigeons per pair.
Damage caused by pigeons under photovoltaic systems
- Mechanically: Nesting material clogs ventilation slots or damages frames.
- Electric: Pigeon droppings are conductive → short circuits are possible.
- Reduced efficiency: Pollution can reduce yield by 10–20%.
- Health: Pigeon droppings can contain fungi, bacteria, and parasites.
- Cleaning costs: Regular removal of nests can be expensive.
- Long-term damage: Rust on the base and modules reduces lifespan.
Economic losses caused by pigeons
Example PV system: 10 kWp in Germany
- Average annual yield: 10,000 kWh
- Performance loss due to heavy soiling: 10–15%
- Electricity price: €0.35/kWh
Table: Power loss and cost loss
Pollution, electricity loss (kWh/year), cost loss (€/year)
10% 1,000 350
15% 1,500 525
⚠️ Additional costs:
- Cleaning / nest removal: €100–300/year
- Repairs due to long-term damage: €500–2,000
✅ Conclusion
A severe pigeon infestation can cause €350–525 in annual electricity losses on a 10 kWp solar system. Combined with cleaning and repair costs, this quickly adds up to several thousand euros over the system's lifetime. Therefore, investing in a mechanical pigeon control system like Solarpanelgitter® is worthwhile in almost all cases.