It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! It’s a Solar Inspection Drone!
By Brooks Braun, Kapaia Power Station Manager

Drone infrared inspections save the day for KIUC's solar PV panels

At a time when renewable energy sources are crucial to KIUC’s future, photovoltaic solar panels stand as a key strategy. Routine maintenance and inspections are essential to maximizing their efficiency and longevity.

Imagine if Superman decided to take up a side gig helping maintain KIUC’s solar PV panels at Anahola and Kōloa solar farms. While drones can't quite match the Man of Steel’s speed or X-ray vision, they come pretty close with their infrared inspection capabilities and quickness.

Here’s how these high-tech drones are a superpower solution for power supply workers performing solar maintenance at our sites:

Superhuman Vision, Minus the Tights

Superman's X-ray vision allows him to see through solid objects. While drones can't do that, they have their own superpower: thermal imaging. With infrared cameras, drones can detect temperature variations in solar PV panels and identify hotspots, malfunctioning cells, loose connections or hidden damage. This means they can spot issues that remain invisible to the naked eye, just like Superman uncovering secrets.

Speed of Sound - Almost

Superman's incredible speed lets him respond to emergencies in a flash. Drones may not be as fast, but they can cover acres of a solar farm installation with incredible efficiency. They can swiftly scan large areas, ensuring no PV panel goes uninspected. Speed is indispensable in Kauaʻi's climate conditions, where storms and salt air corrosion can cause damage.

Safe from Kryptonite

Superman's vulnerability to kryptonite is a well-known weakness, but drones are impervious to such threats. Traditional inspections often require KIUC personnel to navigate challenging environments, which can pose safety risks. When inspecting PV panels over rugged terrain, drones eliminate the need for costly aircraft services or technicians to navigate these potentially hazardous environments, ensuring a safer method for all involved. Drones eliminate the need for physical access and can be 95% more efficient than traditional means, ensuring the safety of inspection teams while also reducing costs.

Cost-Saving Heroes

Superman saves the day without asking for payment, but drone inspections are cost-efficient heroes, too. By identifying issues early and reducing labor costs, they help Anahola and Kōloa solar farms save money immediately and in the long run. The increased energy production due to less downtime and lower maintenance expenses due to early detection pay off generously.

In the world of solar maintenance, drone infrared inspections are the closest thing we have to Superman. They offer superhuman vision, efficiency, safety, environmental responsibility and cost savings. As KIUC continues to lead the charge in clean energy, these super-tech heroes complement KIUC personnel and ensure Anahola and Kōloa solar farms operate their best.