The use of aerial thermography has become an effective tool for monitoring the condition and performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems. By capturing temperature variations across solar modules, this method enables fast and comprehensive assessments of large installations. It supports a more data-driven approach to operations and maintenance, helping to improve overall plant efficiency.
Planned
Description
Problem
PV system faults are often difficult to detect early using standard inspection methods. Issues such as defective cells, poor electrical connections, or localized overheating may remain hidden while gradually reducing system performance. Manual inspections are labor-intensive and may not cover the entire site with sufficient detail, leading to delayed fault detection and increased energy losses.
Solution
Thermographic inspections using drones equipped with infrared cameras provide a practical and scalable alternative. These inspections can quickly locate abnormal temperature patterns that indicate potential defects at module or string level. Captured images can be analyzed using specialized software to classify issues and support maintenance planning. This approach reduces inspection time, improves fault detection accuracy, and enables targeted interventions.
Status and progress
A pilot project is being prepared to test thermographic inspection solutions in selected PV park. Different technology providers and their analysis tools will be evaluated to determine their suitability under real operating conditions. The pilot is expected to take place during the 2nd quarter of 2026, with the aim of assessing performance benefits and defining a potential broader implementation strategy.