How Laser Bird Control Increased Solar Panel Efficiency by 20% at UK’s First Floating Solar Farm

How Laser Bird Control Increased Solar Panel Efficiency by 20% at UK’s First Floating Solar Farm

When Sheeplands Farm installed the UK’s first floating solar array, they didn’t anticipate that their innovative renewable energy solution would become a favourite perching spot for hundreds of seagulls and ducks. The laser bird control technology we install delivered a 75% reduction in bird activity and boosted energy production by up to 20%.

The Challenge: When Innovation Met Nature

Mark Bennett, owner of Sheeplands Farm, had installed an innovative floating solar panel system on his 60 million litre irrigation reservoir. The 800 Trina panels were designed to generate clean energy while preserving valuable farmland – but they quickly became a magnet for local wildlife.

The problems were escalating rapidly:

  • Reduced energy output – bird fouling was preventing panels from reaching maximum efficiency
  • Water contamination – guano was soiling the reservoir water used for farming activities
  • Maintenance costs – panels required frequent cleaning, and bird guano is corrosive enough to damage panels permanently
  • Failed traditional methods – hawk kites were destroyed by strong winds, and birds quickly became accustomed to acoustic deterrents

The Solution: Automated Laser Technology

After researching various options, Mark Bennett chose the same Agrilaser Autonomic technology that we install and maintain for renewable energy clients across the UK.

This automated laser bird deterrent system offered several key advantages:

  • Wide coverage – single unit protecting 3 acres of floating panels
  • 24/7 operation – continuous protection without manual intervention
  • Weather resistant – reliable operation in all conditions
  • Humane approach – birds perceive the laser as a physical threat and leave naturally
  • No habituation – birds don’t become accustomed to the deterrent over time

Outstanding Results: Proven ROI

The results exceeded expectations and have been maintained for over seven years:

Energy Production:

  • 15-20% increase in electricity production within weeks of installation

  • Panels now reaching maximum efficiency capabilities
  • Improved return on solar investment

Operational Benefits:

  • 75% reduction in bird activity across the entire platform
  • Dramatically reduced cleaning frequency and maintenance costs
  • Protected water quality in the irrigation reservoir
  • Long-term effectiveness with no signs of bird habituation

Cost Savings:

  • Reduced panel cleaning requirements
  • Lower maintenance costs
  • Extended panel lifespan by preventing corrosive damage
  • Improved water quality for farming operations

Client Feedback

“The Agrilaser Autonomic could be the best innovative product in the world for bird repellent!”

Mark Bennett, Owner of Sheeplands Farm

Mark Bennett was so impressed with the results that he became an advocate for the technology, particularly praising its effectiveness compared to traditional methods that had failed at his site.

Why This Technology Works for Renewable Energy Sites

This case study demonstrates why we recommend automated laser systems for renewable energy facilities:

  • Measurable ROI – 15-20% increase in energy production pays for the system quickly

  • Reliable operation – works continuously without weather-related failures
  • Environmental compatibility – humane solution that doesn’t harm wildlife
  • Low maintenance – automated operation reduces ongoing costs
  • Scalable coverage – suitable for large solar installations and wind farms

Perfect for Agricultural and Renewable Energy Applications

Sheeplands Farm’s success story shows how laser bird control is particularly effective for:

  • Solar panel installations on farms and industrial sites

  • Floating solar arrays on reservoirs and water bodies
  • Wind farm installations where bird activity affects operations
  • Agricultural sites where crop protection and renewable energy intersect

Is Your Renewable Energy Investment Under Threat?

If your solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy equipment are suffering from bird-related efficiency losses, the technology proven at Sheeplands Farm could transform your operation. Our free site surveys help determine the best laser configuration for your specific site and energy infrastructure.

The same automated system that delivered a 20% efficiency boost at the UK’s first floating solar farm is available nationwide through our professional installation and maintenance service.

Testimonial Profile

Testimonial Date: 2019

Job Date: December 2016

Application Context: Floating solar panels on irrigation reservoir with 800 Trina panels

Problem Definition: Bird fouling reducing energy output, contaminating water supply, and requiring frequent panel cleaning

Location: Sheeplands Farm, near Wargrave, Berkshire

Time of Year: All year round

Time of Day: From sunrise to sunset

Bird Behaviour: Seagulls and ducks perching and fouling on solar panels

Number of Systems: 1 x Agrilaser Autonomic 100

Laser Projection Area: 3 acres (1.2 hectares)

In Use Since: December 2016 (over 7 years of continuous operation)

Number of Birds Before Installation: Hundreds of seagulls and ducks

Bird Reduction After Installation: 75% reduction maintained long-term

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