Large-scale solar panels, often used in commercial and industrial projects, are delicate and susceptible to damage. Rooftops can be difficult to access, and using unsuitable equipment for transport and installation can lead to costly breakages and long project delays.

“When panels are damaged during lifting or installation, it’s not just about replacing the equipment,” explains SkyJacks MD Alistair Bennett. “There are lead times for new panels, and in some cases, entire teams are idled while waiting. It impacts the bottom line and the contractor’s reputation”

"Transporting and installing solar panels presents a unique set of logistical challenges," adds Bennett. "These panels are not only bulky and fragile but getting them safely onto rooftops using traditional lifting methods can be time-consuming, risky, and expensive."

The GEDA Solarlift lifting solution has been designed specifically for the solar industry. With its modular, compact design and a lifting height of up to 19 m, the Solarlift is said to offer an efficient, safe, and cost-effective way to transport PV panels onto rooftops, whether in urban centres or remote agricultural settings.

“It’s lightweight and easy to set up, even on uneven ground or in tight construction sites. The adjustable platform holds solar panels securely during the lift, reducing manual handling and lowering the risk of both damage and injury,” says Bennett.

This has made the system particularly useful for rooftop installations in industrial parks, warehouses, and commercial farms, where rooftop access and project scale can vary significantly. For installers working in remote regions, such as those popular for utility-scale solar projects, the solution’s portability and quick setup offer added advantages.

SkyJacks, the local supplier of the GEDA Solarlift, has introduced a "pay-as-you-use" rental model to help reduce the barrier to entry for small and mid-sized contractors and renewable energy developers. It also helps solar providers scale their operations, giving the option of renting additional lifts as required.

Bennett notes that the company provides end-to-end support, including site assessments, technical advice, and on-site setup assistance.