At Droneview.be, we regularly inspect older solar panel installations to detect defects and efficiency losses. However, we recently encountered an unexpected issue at a client’s site: a brand-new installation from November 2024 had three panels with faulty cells. This proves that testing is not only essential for older systems but also for new installations.

Defects in new panels: how is this possible?

Although you’d expect new solar panels to work flawlessly, defects can occur during manufacturing, transport, or installation. The three defective panels in this installation had damaged cells, which can lead to:

Reduced energy output: A single defective panel can negatively impact the entire string’s performance.
Higher internal resistance and heat buildup: This can shorten the panel’s lifespan and pose safety risks.
Potential warranty issues: If defects are not detected in time, claiming warranty replacements can become more complicated.

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Storms and hail can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. From dislodged roof tiles to damaged solar panels and façades, it’s crucial to assess the damage quickly and accurately to prevent further issues. Traditional inspection methods can be time-consuming, costly, and even dangerous. Drones offer an innovative solution: fast, safe, and highly detailed.

Benefits of Drone Inspections for Storm Damage

Safety First
Inspecting roofs, façades, and other tall structures can be risky, especially if the damage has made the building unstable. Drones eliminate the need for ladders, scaffolding, and dangerous climbing. Inspections can be conducted entirely from a safe distance, even in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.
Fast and Efficient Damage Assessment
While a manual inspection can take hours, a drone can survey a large area in just minutes. This is particularly valuable after storms that have affected multiple buildings, such as in residential neighborhoods or industrial sites.
High Precision with Advanced Technology
Drones equipped with high-quality cameras like the Zenmuse Z30 or thermal cameras such as the Zenmuse XT2 can detect even the smallest cracks, missing roof tiles, or hidden damage. Thermal images are particularly useful for identifying where water or cold air is seeping through the structure.

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