Thermal Drone Solar Panel Inspections

Maximise Output, Detect Faults, Optimise Asset Performance

At Wight Drone we deliver high precision thermal drone inspections for utility scale solar farms and roof mounted PV arrays across the Isle of Wight and mainland UK

Using UAV-mounted radiometric thermal cameras, we detect electrical, mechanical, and thermal anomalies that reduce panel efficiency. Our system provides high resolution, georeferenced data for actionable analysis, enabling targeted maintenance and operational optimisation.

Inspection Coverage

• Utility-scale solar farms (ground-mounted PV arrays)

• Commercial and industrial rooftop systems

• Agricultural and off-grid PV installations

• Residential solar panel arrays

We can survey large or complex sites efficiently, capturing full-array thermal data in a single flight.

Faults Detected with Thermal Imaging

• Hotspots from damaged or underperforming cells

• Panel degradation due to manufacturing defects or environmental stress

• String or connection faults affecting energy output

• Shading and soiling issues impacting performance

• Potential Induced Degradation (PID)

• Inverter or junction box anomalies

Our system identifies thermal differentials ensuring even minor faults are detected early.

Technical Advantages of Drone Inspections

• Radiometric thermal imaging for accurate, actionable temperature data

• RTK georeferencing for precise fault location and mapping

• Rapid deployment for large or remote sites

• Non-invasive surveying with no system shutdown required

• Eliminates working at height and reduces risk to personnel

• Provides repeatable, consistent data for long-term performance monitoring

Detailed Technical Reporting

Each inspection includes a comprehensive technical report suitable for engineers, asset managers, and O&M teams:

• High-resolution thermal maps and imagery

• Georeferenced fault locations on site maps

• Visual inspection imagery for context

• Severity assessment of faults

Reports are delivered in PDF format for easy integration into maintenance systems and performance tracking software.

Maximise Your Solar Output

Even small faults can reduce system efficiency by several percent. Early detection through high-resolution thermal drone surveys allows for targeted maintenance, maximising energy production and reducing operational costs.

Whether you manage a large solar farm or a commercial rooftop system, Wight Drone provides data-driven insights to protect your investment and improve ROI.

Nationwide Coverage

We provide services across the Isle of Wight and the mainland UK—from Penzance to Manchester—covering a wide range of commercial, industrial, and residential solar installations.

Book Your Technical Solar Inspection

Ensure your solar array operates at peak efficiency. Contact Wight Drone today to schedule a thermal drone solar inspection and receive detailed, actionable reports to optimise performance and protect your asset.