Photovoltaic Drone Inspections

Photovoltaic drone inspections enable the fast and safe detection of hot spots, PID and faulty strings. We combine radiometric thermography, RGB capture and RTK positioning to deliver georeferenced, comparable and actionable data that reduces losses, prioritises O&M and maximises plant output.

At SG Solutions drones, we deliver georeferenced reports with defects classified by severity, IR/RGB evidence, recommendations and a thermal map per module and string. Annual traceability enables campaign comparison, outage planning, O&M prioritisation, risk reduction and improved ROI for photovoltaic assets.

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What Does Photovoltaic Inspection with Drones Involve?

Photovoltaic drone inspection captures RGB imagery and radiometric thermography to locate hot spots, PID and faulty strings efficiently. With planned flights, controlled GSD and RTK, we generate repeatable, georeferenced data that accelerates diagnosis. Heading, altitude and orientation are recorded to repeat missions with precision.

We correlate IR and RGB to create a thermal map per module and string, classifying anomalies by severity and estimating their production impact. We apply IEC 62446 criteria and consistent thermal thresholds for reliable decisions. The analysis guides cleaning, replacement or electrical checks and safely prioritises O&M actions.

We deliver georeferenced reports with IR/RGB evidence, RTK coordinates, severity levels and prioritised recommendations. Deliverables include thermal maps, detail images and traceability per module and string. Historical data enables campaign comparison, KPI tracking, reduced downtime and improved plant ROI, with export to SCADA/CMMS and corporate integration.

Benefits of Photovoltaic Drone Inspections

Photovoltaic drone inspections reduce risk and downtime. Using photovoltaic thermography, thermal drones and RTK, we identify hot spots, PID and faulty strings. We deliver PV reports and thermal maps that prioritise repairs and maximise production.

Early detection of hot spots and PID.

Safety: reduced exposure and fewer stoppages.

Fast coverage of large-scale plants.

Comparable radiometric data.

Clear reports with severity and action.

SCADA/CMMS integration.

The georeferenced report classifies anomalies by severity and cost, proposes actions and builds a history per solar module, string and field. With objective data, you optimise PV maintenance, reduce hot spot losses and improve plant ROI.

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Complementary Services

Aerial Thermal Inspection

Zoom and RTK Inspection

Types of Defects Detected in Photovoltaic Plants

Drones detect hot spots, PID, faulty by-pass diodes, disconnected strings, shading and soiling that degrade performance. Using radiometric photovoltaic thermography and RGB correlation, we generate a thermal map and report to safely prioritise repairs.

Why Choose SG Solutions Drones

RTK + thermal equipment and IEC 62446 methodology. Georeferenced reports in under 48 hours, history per module/string and export to SCADA/CMMS.

IEC 62446 Methodology

Inspection compliant with IEC 62446. Overlap planning, AI support and consistent O&M criteria reduce false positives and speed up issue resolution and ticket closure.

Accuracy and Traceability

Radiometric cameras and RTK flights. IR/RGB correlation and thermal maps per string provide clear evidence and centimetre-level fault location.

Fast Coverage

Large-scale plants covered within hours. Systematic capture, safety-first operations and reports in under 48 hours to prioritise repairs and recover production quickly.

Integration and Portal

Results available via a web portal for review and export. Reports compatible with SCADA/CMMS, historical tracking per module, string and inverter for objective decision-making.

Trust Smart Inspection

Safe photovoltaic diagnostics. At SG Solutions, we turn IR/RGB and thermal data into reports that prioritise repairs, cut losses and increase availability.

Speak with a specialist and request a sample report. We will propose the optimal plan with timelines, IEC 62446 methodology and deliverables ready for O&M and SCADA/CMMS to recover production.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Photovoltaic Drone Inspections

1How long does an inspection take?

Depending on plant size and wind conditions, modules and strings are inspected within hours. A preliminary report is delivered in under 48 hours to prioritise repairs and recover production as quickly as possible.

2What resolution is used?

We use radiometric thermal cameras (640×512) and 4K optical cameras. IR and RGB data are correlated to accurately locate anomalies and measure thermal differences consistently.

3Can flights be performed in windy conditions?

Yes, always within manufacturer limits and following a detailed risk assessment. If wind gusts exceed safe thresholds, operations are rescheduled to ensure safety and thermographic quality.

4What regulations apply?

Operations comply with IEC 62446 and EASA/AESA regulations. Flight planning, permits and SORA assessments are applied when required to operate safely in sensitive environments.

5What deliverables do I receive?

You receive a PV inspection report including a thermal map, defects classified by severity, IR/RGB evidence and recommendations. Files are exportable to SCADA/CMMS with full historical traceability.

6Advantages over ground-based inspection?

Greater speed, 100% coverage and reproducible radiometric data. Comparable inspection history simplifies O&M and reduces energy losses.

If You Have Further Questions, Contact Us