Renewable Energy Inspection

Drone-powered Energy Inspection

Thermal drones can be used to detect irregularities in solar fields, these can due to physical obstructions such as trees or powerlines. Or due to components failing prematurely. Data can be collected from the entire field of panels for abnormal readings. Then the individual panels can be labeled and geo marked  For repair or replacement. 

Remote power line inspections can also be performed by drones. These drones can cover vast distances across uneven or marshy terrain while being easier to maintain, readily available, and more cost effective than helicopters, all while being much safer. This can be utilized to identify future problems in the right of way land such as over grown tree limbs, or dead trees that may over time become a nuisance or fall upon the lines or components.

While the thermal camera can inspect the components themselves, the transformers throughout their lifespan can develop failures. The thermal camera can detect, damaged components, corrosion, or voids in the insulation. These transformers can be oil or air cooled. They have a normal temperature operation range. Understanding and reading these numbers can also predict a premature failing leading to an outage. Lines themselves can also be inspected for damages or faults. Drones can reduce costs from manpower, equipment and downtime. Performing these inspections can reduce outages while also extending the lifespan of the grid. While not only being safer for climbers and helicopters, drones also Have a smaller carbon footprint. 

Wind turbines can also be inspected by drones. This can be done without any special vehicles or other equipment. Can be much more detailed than other methods of inspection all while everyone is safe on the ground. These can look for blade deamination, core defects, as well as some internal component failure.