Italian startup offers new bird protection solution for rooftop PV – SPE

By pv magazine Italy

Italian startup Italgam Srl has developed a new bird protection solution for rooftop PV systems.

The EVO 2.0 solution consists of brushes between the back of the panels and the roof. The brushes are available in two types with different diameters depending on requirements.

The bristles, made of polypropylene treated with anti-UV to prevent crystallization, protect the panels, while the steel wire in the brushes is made of low-carbon stainless steel to prevent corrosion.

Italgam CEO Maurizio Chiacchierini said this pv magazine that the inspiration for the Evo 2.0 brush came from a gutter cleaning brush he saw in British Columbia, Canada. He developed and patented the Evo 2.0 brush after a solar installer asked if it could prevent pigeons from nesting under panels.

Pigeon prevention now represents approximately 90% of Italgam’s production. The company claims that more than 1,300 solar companies now regularly use the Evo brush in their installations.

“The Evo brush for solar panels is produced with serrated bristles for better grip on the surfaces and staggered, allowing a better flow of heat produced by the panels and a greater flow of rainwater under the panels in case of rain,” said Chiacchierini .

He said bird pests, not the brushes, reduce system efficiency. Pigeons often contaminate panels, which can reduce energy production by up to 30%. He added that the worst damage occurs under the panels, where dry and organic waste can accumulate, leading to overheating and possible short circuits that could cause a fire.

“The Evo brush with its staggered bristles does not restrict air exchange, but categorically prevents birds and foliage from entering under the systems,” says Chiacchierini. “And it is adaptable to all types of roofs, including those made of corrugated iron.”