Thermal Imaging and I-V Curve Testing
Project Overview
Engineering Design Services performed a comprehensive performance evaluation of a utility-scale solar farm in Central Texas using drone-based thermal imaging and on-site I-V curve testing. The objective was to assess system health, identify underperforming photovoltaic assets, and support proactive maintenance strategies to maximize energy production and long-term reliability.
Result & Impact
• Identified underperforming solar modules for targeted maintenance without disrupting operations
• Improved system efficiency through precise fault detection and diagnostics
• Delivered actionable inspection reports to guide maintenance planning
• Enhanced long-term reliability and performance of the solar farm
• Reduced operational downtime through proactive issue identification
• Supported optimized energy production and asset management strategies
Engineering Tools & Technologies
• Drone-based thermal imaging (UAS platforms)
• High-resolution infrared thermography
• I-V curve tracing equipment
• Photovoltaic performance analysis tools
• Electrical diagnostics and testing methodologies
• Solar asset inspection and reporting systems
Scope
• Conduct drone-based thermal imaging surveys of photovoltaic arrays
• Inspect solar modules, inverters, and electrical connections for anomalies
• Identify hot spots, faulty connections, and damaged modules
• Perform I-V curve testing on selected strings and modules
• Evaluate electrical performance against expected design parameters
• Assess degradation, shading effects, and balance-of-system issues
• Develop inspection reports and maintenance recommendations
• Support operations and maintenance planning for system optimization
Solution
Engineering Design Services combined aerial thermal imaging with detailed electrical testing to provide a complete view of solar farm performance. Drone-based surveys enabled rapid, non-intrusive identification of thermal anomalies across the site, while I-V curve testing validated electrical output and diagnosed issues not visible in thermal data alone. The integration of both methods allowed EDS to pinpoint performance deficiencies with high accuracy and translate findings into actionable maintenance guidance.
