Drone-based Thermography

Drone-based thermographic inspection allows for fast and precise detection of defects in solar panels and other electrical installations using high-resolution thermal cameras and automated flight paths. Drones can survey large areas quickly without stopping system operation and provide much more detailed data than manual inspections. This method significantly reduces risks to personnel, improves maintenance planning, and enables early detection of issues that could impact performance and safety.

What Can Be Detected with Drone Thermography

• Hot spots, damaged cells, and module delamination

• Soiling/dust accumulation, activated bypass diodes, underperforming modules

• Disconnected strings, reverse polarity, inverter or DC/AC line issues

• Shading, vegetation overgrowth, and other external interferences

Key Benefits for Clients

• Data Volume & Accuracy – Drones capture more anomalies with high temperature sensitivity

• Detailed Reports – Complete list of thermal anomalies and losses with recommended corrective actions

• No System Downtime – Inspections are performed while the system is fully operational, avoiding production losses

• Speed – Up to 10 minutes per 1 MW, compared to 2–5 hours for manual inspections

• Safer Process – Eliminates work on rooftops, live circuits, or hazardous areas

• Historical Data – Repeat flights allow tracking of panel degradation and data-driven maintenance decisions

Applications

• Solar power plants

• Rooftop solar installations

• Industrial facilities and electrical grids

• Pre-commissioning inspections of solar plants to ensure correct system operation

• Preventive thermographic inspections, fault diagnostics, and warranty surveys

Comprehensive aerial view (combined from 2124 photos) of the solar park, identifying anomalies across thousands of panels

Detailed observation reports and data analysis