While you are diligently investing money into your commercial property and renewable energy, your solar installation might be multi-tasking as a warm and sheltered nesting spot for opportunistic raccoons.

A steady increase in urban raccoon population is leading to business owners reporting more and more wildlife on roofs and under solar panels. This article will explore the reasons behind raccoon infestations under or around solar panels in both homes and commercial buildings in the GTA and what to do about them. When it comes to raccoon removal from solar panels, remember that there is only one company in Toronto and the GTA that offers a truly permanent solution - unlike trapping and relocating: Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control.

Why Do Solar Arrays Attract Raccoons?

The answer to this question is two-fold: Residential solar installations are usually mounted only 2-3 inches above the roof, so raccoons cannot fit under there. But, raccoons will still seek out solar arrays on sloped roofs to exploit the structural weakness created by the mounting brackets and to access the attic. On commercial roofs, solar arrays have a much larger gap between the roof and solar panels, so raccoons can actually use the space between as a shelter.

• The Thermal Advantage (Year-Round)
  Solar panels act like a thermal blanket. They absorb massive amounts of sun/heat, and the space between the panel and the roof traps that heat, creating an ideal, insulated micro-climate critical for survival during freezing winter nights and extreme summer heat.
  
  
• Safety and Seclusion
  The tight space and height offer perfect protection from ground-dwelling predators and human disturbance, making it a preferred location for birthing and nesting.
  
  
• Easy Access
  Raccoons can use nearby trees, perimeter roof edges, or downspouts to gain access to the roof, then slide directly under the panels where they are completely hidden.
  
  
• Proximity to Food Sources
  Garbage bins, compost, bird feeders, and nearby gardens provide a tasty buffet for resourceful raccoons.
  
  

Types of Properties Affected by Raccoons

The problem of raccoons around solar panels becomes more pronounced during the colder months as animals seek warmth and protection from the elements.

Residential Properties

• Detached homes and townhouses;
• Rural properties with solar panels;
• Raccoons seek to gain access to the attic through the roof and by exploiting potential weaknesses created by the solar panel mount.
  
  

Commercial & Industrial Properties

• Warehouses, factories, and retail stores with rooftop solar systems;
• Commercial buildings with large flat roofs are at greater risk due to panel quantity and hidden spaces;
• Raccoons will build nests (called dens) in the space between the solar panel and roof.
  
  

Signs of Raccoons Under or Around Solar Panels

• Scratching, thumping, or movement noises, particularly at night;
• Damaged wiring or insulation beneath panels;
• Feces and urine accumulation on rooftops;
• Visible claw marks on pipes or other access ways to the roof;
• Loose or shifted panels;
• Debris or nesting materials visible under panels or near gutters,
• Reduced solar efficiency due to wiring damage.