The energy company EDP has started tests on its digital platform to fully automate maintenance operations in photovoltaic installations. maintenance operations in photovoltaic installations. At its solar plant located in Cruz de Hierro, Spain, it is deploying an autonomous system that combines drones, robots and an IoT network to perform cleaning, inspection and vegetation control tasks without human intervention.
A technological ecosystem at the service of efficiency
The solution developed by EDP is structured in five coordinated elements. Drones equipped with artificial intelligence scan the park to detect dirt or plant interference. This information is transmitted to a proprietary platform that analyzes SCADA data together with weather forecasts. Based on this, it decides when to activate the robots, which move autonomously to perform the necessary tasks.
This selective automation allows action only where it is needed, unlike conventional preventive models. It also reduces worker exposure to remote environments and improves operational management by minimizing human error.
Cost reduction and scalability in solar parks
EDP’s goal is to reduce by up to 80% the operating expenses related to the cleaning of the panel cleaning and weed and weed control. This figure becomes relevant considering that these tasks represent more than 20% of a solar farm’s costs. Automation provides a scalable solution to meet the growing demand for renewable energy in hard-to-reach areas.
This pilot, called “Scale Up O&M,” is part of a broader strategy to extend this technology to other EDP facilities around the world. Its potential is not only focused on savings, but also on transforming the solar operating model into a smarter, more connected and sustainable one.
Value added to human talent
With this evolution, EDP aims to free its teams from repetitive tasks and allow them to focus on higher-value activities. This opens up new opportunities for the development of technical skills and specialization, keeping people at the center of the technological transition.
The experience gained from this initiative will lay the groundwork for future optimizations, making solar operation an increasingly predictive and efficient discipline.
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Source and photo: EDP
