Drone thermography for solar PV systems
AeroSurvey records temperature anomalies in photovoltaic systems. Radiometric thermal images and reference photographs help locate suspect modules and prepare targeted technical investigations.
Enquire about PV thermography →
Locate hotspots and temperature differences
Thermal imagery for operators and maintenance teams
For output issues or routine maintenance, thermography highlights modules and areas needing attention. It complements visual inspection with temperature data. The cause of an anomaly requires further specialist investigation.
What is PV thermography?
A radiometric camera records module surface temperatures. Patterns can indicate uneven operation of cells, modules or strings.
Results depend on irradiance, system operation, wind, viewing angle and reflections. A thermal image alone is not conclusive proof of a defect.
Which anomalies become visible?
- Local heating and hotspots
- Unusual module temperature patterns
- Differences between module groups and strings
- Thermal indications of shading or soiling
Similar patterns can have different causes. Drone thermography cannot reliably rule out microcracks. Additional tests such as electroluminescence may be needed.
The thermal inspection process
- Agree the location, system layout, objective and operating state.
- Capture the array under suitable weather and operating conditions.
- Link thermal images to reference photographs and asset areas.
- Deliver data for maintenance and further assessment.
Your deliverables
Radiometric thermal images, RGB reference photographs and structured anomaly records, according to the agreed scope.
Radiometric files allow later analysis of recorded temperatures with capture conditions taken into account. Labelling, asset identification and formats are agreed in advance.
When is PV thermography useful?
- To investigate output deviations
- To complement post-installation condition records
- Before agreed warranties expire
- During regular maintenance
Suitable, stable solar irradiance and an operating system are important. Strong wind, changing cloud cover and reflections can affect interpretation.
PV thermography — discuss your project
We capture rooftop and ground-mounted systems in Austria and Germany and welcome enquiries for Poland. Send the location, capacity or module count, inspection purpose and available plans.
Request a PV thermography quoteThermal anomaly or visible damage?
Broken glass, soiling and external damage are recorded through visual PV inspection. Thermography adds temperature information. We select the combination to suit your inspection objective.
PV thermography FAQs
Inspection workflows, capture conditions and available deliverables.
What does drone PV thermography cover?
We capture modules with a radiometric camera to show temperature differences. Additional RGB photographs help assign anomalies to the relevant module or array area.
Which anomalies can thermal images show?
Hotspots and unusual temperature patterns in cells, modules or strings. Possible causes include electrical issues, shading and soiling. Diagnosis and decisions on corrective action require further specialist assessment.
When should PV thermography be carried out?
After installation, when output deviates, following weather events, during maintenance or before agreed warranties expire. Under suitable capture conditions, it helps identify areas for further investigation.
What conditions are needed for useful thermal images?
Adequate irradiance, reasonably stable weather, an operating system and limited shading and reflections. We assess suitability before capture.
What data will I receive?
As agreed: radiometric thermal images, RGB reference photographs and records of anomalous areas. Identification and formats are agreed in advance. Electrical assessment is performed by qualified specialists.
