PV Panel Thermal Scan Singapore — Find Defective Cells Before They Cost You Energy

Radiometric thermal scanning of photovoltaic panels from above. Identify hotspots, bypass diode failures, and connection issues across your entire solar array in a single drone flight.

How PV Panel Thermal Scanning Works

Every photovoltaic cell converts sunlight into electricity. When a cell is defective — cracked, shaded, or disconnected — it converts that energy into heat instead. This temperature difference between healthy and defective cells is clearly visible on infrared cameras, making thermal scanning the most effective method for identifying underperforming panels in large solar arrays.

Drone solar panel inspection and thermal scanning

Our drone-mounted radiometric thermal cameras capture calibrated temperature data for every panel in your array. The drone flies systematic grid patterns at optimal altitude, ensuring complete coverage with sufficient resolution to identify individual cell defects. Simultaneous visual photography documents physical damage and soiling conditions.

For Singapore's growing fleet of rooftop and ground-mounted PV installations — from HDB town solar deployments to industrial roof arrays in Tuas and Jurong, to the floating solar systems on Tengeh and Bedok reservoirs — thermal scanning provides the data needed to maximise energy yield and protect warranty claims.

Thermal Anomaly Classification

Anomaly TypeThermal PatternImpact
Single Cell HotspotOne cell significantly warmer5-15% panel output loss
Multi-Cell HotspotCluster of warm cells15-30% panel output loss
Bypass Diode FailureOne-third of panel warm33% panel output loss
String AnomalyEntire string temperature shiftInverter or wiring issue
Full Panel AnomalyEntire panel warmConnection or PID failure

Each anomaly is GPS-tagged to the specific panel location for efficient maintenance crew dispatch.

PV Thermal Scan Pricing

Array SizeThermal ScanScan + Full Report
Under 200 panels$1,200 — $1,800$1,800 — $2,500
200 — 1,000 panels$1,800 — $3,500$2,500 — $5,000
Over 1,000 panels$3,500 — $7,000$5,000 — $9,000

Full reports include panel-by-panel anomaly identification, energy loss estimates, and warranty claim documentation where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature difference indicates a defective PV cell?
A temperature difference of 10 degrees Celsius or more above the panel average typically indicates a significant defect. Differences of 5-10 degrees suggest developing issues worth monitoring. Our reports classify anomalies by severity based on delta-T measurements and thermal patterns.
Can thermal scanning support warranty claims?
Yes. Our thermal reports document defect type, severity, location, and estimated output loss — the data that panel manufacturers and EPC contractors require for warranty evaluation. We provide reports in formats accepted by major panel manufacturers.
How many panels can be scanned per hour?
Our drones scan approximately 500-1,000 panels per hour depending on array configuration and required resolution. A typical 500 kWp rooftop installation of about 1,500 panels can be completely scanned in 2-3 hours of flight time.
Does weather affect PV thermal scanning accuracy?
Yes. Thermal scanning requires clear sun with irradiance above 500 W/m2 for sufficient thermal loading. Cloud cover, rain, and strong winds all reduce scan quality. We schedule flights for optimal conditions and will reschedule if weather is unsuitable on the planned day.

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