Solar Panel Cleaning in Waverley, Dunedin – 10 Years of Lichen Build-Up Removed

At Eco Solar Clean, we recently completed a solar panel cleaning job in Waverley, Dunedin, where the panels hadn’t been cleaned in over 10 years. Over time, the entire surface became covered in lichen and grime, blocking sunlight and reducing the panels’ ability to generate power efficiently.

The lichen was visible from the street

The panels had a large number of marks on them due to their age

The lichen usually starts on the edges and makes its way into the panel

Why Regular Solar Panel Cleaning Matters

When solar panels are left uncleaned for years, contaminants like lichen, moss, dust, and bird droppings build up on the surface. This layer of debris reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the solar cells, which can cause significant drops in energy output — in some cases by 20–30%.

Multiple spores branching out

Regular solar panel cleaning in Dunedin’s coastal climate is especially important, as the combination of moisture and shade encourages lichen growth on roofs and solar surfaces. Once established, lichen bonds tightly to the glass, making it difficult to remove without the right equipment and experience.

The special lichen scraping tool is a must for these jobs

Our Process

For this Waverley job, our team safely accessed the roof and used specialised tools and purified water to remove years of built-up lichen without damaging the panels. We also cleaned the surrounding frames and checked for any cracks or shading issues to help restore maximum solar efficiency.

The carbon fibre pole has a huge reach

The transformation was instant, from dull and spotted panels to clean, reflective glass ready to absorb full sunlight again.

Stunning views in Waverley, Dunedin

Extend the Life of Your Solar Panels

Keeping your panels clean not only boosts performance but also extends their lifespan. Regular professional cleaning prevents long-term damage caused by lichen and organic growth, protecting your investment and ensuring your system runs efficiently all year round.

All of the lichen removed and the panels brushed clean

If your solar panels haven’t been cleaned in years, now’s the time to act.

Book your solar panel clean in Dunedin today with Eco Solar Clean.

Visit www.ecosolarclean.co.nz to request a free quote.

From the street, no lichen to be seen