Solar energy systems are vital components of the global transition to renewable energy. Maintaining their efficiency is essential for optimizing energy output and preserving long-term asset value. Early detection of defects in solar modules is particularly crucial, as delayed identification often leaves operators with limited options to mitigate risks effectively. In this context, PV aerial inspections have become a cornerstone of solar farm maintenance, providing efficient, large-scale monitoring capabilities.

Current state-of-the-art methods involve drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging sensors. These tools enable operators to quickly survey extensive installations and identify issues such as open diodes, open strings, thermal hot spots, and other potential faults.

However, there is room for significant innovation, and this is where the PVOP project is set to make a groundbreaking contribution.

PVOP aims to advance the field of aerial inspections by introducing six ambitious use cases that go beyond the current state-of-the-art in aerial thermography.

These innovations will be offered as stand-alone solutions or integrated into a more comprehensive solar farm management framework.

PVOP Innovations in Aerial Inspection Techniques

1. Electroluminescence Imaging via Drones
   Electroluminescence (EL) is a powerful testing method that captures detailed images of solar modules by applying an electrical current, effectively identifying microcracks, cell degradation, and millimetric-level defects. Traditional EL testing requires modules to be biased, which can slow down inspection processes. PVOP will address this limitation by enabling the biasing of multiple strings simultaneously, while drones equipped with advanced EL imaging systems collect the data. This approach will significantly enhance the speed of EL inspections.

2. Ultra-High-Resolution Imagery
   PVOP aims to develop innovative techniques for capturing ultra-high-resolution aerial imagery, enabling the precise identification and reporting of centimeter-level defects in solar cells. These defects can serve as early indicators of potential serial issues within the modules, allowing for proactive maintenance and improving the overall reliability of photovoltaic systems. Moreover, this advanced imaging technology addresses another significant challenge in PV farm operations: the difficulty of managing module inventory during construction. Drawing on the extensive experience of PVOP partners, the ultra-high-resolution imagery can also be utilized for the automated detection of module serial numbers from labels after installation. This capability will streamline inventory management, reduce manual effort, and enhance traceability throughout the lifecycle of the PV modules.

3. Aerial UV Fluorescence (UVF) Testing
   PVOP will pioneer the use of aerial UVF testing, an emerging technique that analyzes the fluorescence emitted by module materials under ultraviolet light. This method is highly effective for detecting cell-level issues without requiring module biasing, making it scalable and non-intrusive. While challenges such as the absence of an IEC standard and limited data availability persist, PVOP is committed to overcoming these hurdles and unlocking the potential of UVF for solar inspections.

4. Tracker Misalignment Detection
   PVOP will leverage multi-temporal aerial imaging to detect, and report misaligned solar trackers with high precision. By capturing imagery at different times and comparing the data, this approach enables the identification of inconsistencies in tracker alignment, which can significantly impact the efficiency and energy yield of photovoltaic systems. This technology will analyze changes in tracker positions over time, allowing for the early detection of alignment issues that may result from mechanical faults, environmental factors, or installation errors.

5. Hanging DC Cable Monitoring
   PVOP will develop advanced solutions for identifying and automatically reporting hanging DC cables. These issues, often overlooked in traditional inspections, can have a significant impact on farm performance and, more importantly, safety.
   
6. Vegetation Management
   Leveraging drone technology and AI, PVOP will identify areas of the solar farm requiring vegetation management. By detecting overgrowth or obstructions, this solution ensures optimal system performance and reduces maintenance risks.

The Role of AI and Machine Learning

Central to PVOP’s innovations is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) methodologies as an accelerator for the inspections process. These advanced tools can autonomously process vast volumes of imagery captured during aerial inspections, enabling near real-time defect detection and classification.

By leveraging AI/ML, operators can deploy corrective measures more efficiently, minimize downtime, and reduce overall maintenance costs. Furthermore, these technologies enhance the accuracy and consistency of inspections, mitigating the risk of human error.

Toward a Sustainable Solar Future

PVOP represents a fusion of cutting-edge aerial testing techniques and AI-driven analysis, creating a powerful framework for proactive solar asset management.

By embracing these novel approaches, the solar industry can enhance the reliability and performance of renewable energy systems, ultimately driving progress toward a more sustainable, resilient and safer energy future.

Want to continue discussing these PVOP solutions with others?

Join our discord community and connect with other stakeholders from all over the world and stay up to date the latest opportunities in the innovation ecosystem.