Drone Solar PV Surveys & Inspections

Fast. Safe. Accurate solar diagnostics using CAA‑approved drone technology

Mr Solar provides professional Drone Solar PV Surveys using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to assess, inspect and optimise solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. From pre‑installation feasibility to fault finding and insurance inspections, our drone-led approach delivers detailed insights with minimal disruption.

Why Choose a Drone Solar PV Survey?

Drone surveys are a smarter, safer and more cost‑effective way to understand the true performance of your solar PV system.

• No working at height – improved safety and reduced risk
• Rapid inspections – large sites surveyed in hours, not days
• High‑resolution & thermal imaging – issues invisible from the ground revealed
• Minimal downtime – inspections without shutting down operations
• Accurate fault location – targeted repairs, reduced costs

Over time, the majority of commercial and large-scale solar PV systems develop faults. Early detection protects generation, revenue and return on investment.

What We Use Drone Surveys For

Pre‑Installation Surveys

Quickly assess a potential installation site to confirm feasibility, identify constraints and determine the optimal layout and positioning of solar panels.

Inspections & Fault Finding                             

Identify damage, defects, underperformance and outage issues. Thermal imaging highlights hotspots at cell, string and component level, pinpointing exactly where energy is being lost.

Maintenance & Performance Optimisation

Support planned maintenance, diagnose existing issues and prioritise remedial works to restore and maximise output.

What’s Included in a Drone Solar PV Survey

Your survey may include:

• High‑resolution aerial photographs of the full PV system
• Thermal reports at cell level, string level & ancillary diagnostics
• Advanced calculations to quantify energy losses
• Thermal imagery to identify hotspots and failing components
• 3D system models (where required)
• Sun exposure and shading analysis
• System size, layout and condition reporting
• Remedial works carried out by qualified Solar PV professionals                                                                     

From Data to Actionable Insight

Once the survey is complete, Mr Solar transforms the captured data into a clear, practical solar energy report.

Our Process

1. Conduct Aerial Inspection
   In‑house inspections, autonomous drone flights or Data Capture services.
2. Detect & Classify Anomalies
   Industry‑leading software identifies, categorises and localises faults to precise geotagged locations.
3. Interactive Digital Twin
   Results delivered through an interactive, map‑based digital twin of your solar asset, with an easy‑to‑use and exportable dashboard.
4. Advanced Analytics & Optimisation
   Unlock further performance improvements, automation and asset optimisation through integrated analytics workflows.

Call Mr Solar Today

Let’s get started.

📞 Call Mr Solar: 01493 289 118
👤 Ask for Ian Gilfedder – CAA Approved

Our Services

• Ground‑mounted systems (panels mounted on frames)
• Roof‑mounted systems – barns, cattle sheds, outbuildings & most long‑life structures
• Commercial solar panels with battery storage systems
• Retrospective monitoring for solar PV generation & load monitoring
• Commercial drone inspections & fault finding
• Insurance inspections, certified testing & inspection, fault rectification to MIS 3002
• Fault finding: solar panels, inverters, cabling & switchgear
• Grant application proposals with detailed paybacks and generation forecasts
• Insurance estimates for works

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a drone solar PV survey?

A drone solar PV survey uses unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with high‑resolution and thermal cameras to inspect solar panels. It allows us to identify faults, performance issues and safety concerns quickly and accurately without the need for scaffolding or working at height.

Is a drone survey safe and compliant?

Yes. All drone operations are carried out by CAA‑approved pilots and conducted in line with UK aviation regulations. This method significantly reduces health and safety risks compared to traditional manual inspections.

Can drone surveys detect faults that can’t be seen from the ground?

Absolutely. Thermal imaging can identify hotspots, failing cells, string issues and electrical faults that are invisible to the naked eye, even when panels appear visually intact.

Do the solar panels need to be switched off?

In most cases, no. Drone thermal inspections are often most effective when the system is operational, allowing us to accurately detect underperforming areas without disrupting generation.

How often should a solar PV system be inspected?

We recommend inspections:

• Annually for commercial and ground‑mounted systems
• After severe weather events
• If performance drops or faults are suspected
• Prior to warranty, insurance or asset handover reviews

Will I receive a report after the survey?

Yes. You’ll receive a comprehensive solar energy report, including imagery, thermal analysis, identified issues, loss calculations and clear recommendations for remedial works.

Can you carry out repairs after faults are identified?

Yes. Mr Solar offers end‑to‑end service, from inspection and diagnosis through to certified remedial works carried out by experienced solar PV professionals.

Are drone surveys suitable for roof‑mounted and ground‑mounted systems?

Yes. Drone surveys are ideal for both roof‑mounted and ground‑mounted installations, including large commercial arrays, agricultural buildings, barns and outbuildings.

Accurate insight. Reduced risk. Better solar performance.

Contact Mr Solar today to book your Drone Solar PV Survey.