Inspections and Detection System for Hotspots in Photovoltaic Farms Using UAV

Abstract

This paper discusses the hotspot problem that affects solar panels’ efficiency and output power with a solution approach to this problem. This project aims to detect hotspots to reduce financial losses and maintain high performance. Using infrared thermography (IR) camera connected to an auto-controlled drone (UAV), a continuous scan of the surface of the installed solar panels is applied. The hotspot is dangerous because it is hidden and sometimes cannot be discovered until the total damage to the cell happens. Since a hotspot can quickly occur due to environmental conditions such as dust, dirt, shading, or manufactural causes, it requires a continuous check to maintain highly efficient performance and a safe working area.