Powerline & Solar Inspection

Course Overview

Infrastructure inspection uses drones to capture visual and thermal information from powerlines, substations, and solar photovoltaic assets. The course explains structured inspection workflows, the technologies used for visual and thermal review, and why consistent capture methods matter for energy infrastructure. Practical work focuses on planning inspection missions, capturing usable imagery, and reviewing assets in a methodical way. The course does not authorise work on live electrical systems or replace utility-specific competency requirements.

This course covers drone-based inspection methods for powerline and solar infrastructure, with emphasis on structured capture, visual review, and operational practice.

Learning Outcomes

After working through this course, learners should be able to:

• Describe drone inspection methods used on powerline and solar assets.
• Plan structured capture missions for energy infrastructure.
• Identify visual and thermal inspection considerations.
• Apply a methodical approach to reviewing inspection imagery.
• Recognise operational and safety limits around energy infrastructure.

Course Curriculum

The curriculum is organised into modules. Lesson content will be delivered in a later learning platform phase.

Where This Technology Is Used

• Transmission infrastructure
• Distribution infrastructure
• Solar PV inspection
• Thermal inspection
• Asset condition review

Requirements

These are suggested starting points, not official institutional entry requirements.

• Basic computer literacy
• Interest in inspection, energy infrastructure, or drone operations
• Familiarity with basic technical concepts may be beneficial

Who Is This Course For?

• Engineering personnel
• Inspection technicians
• Drone operators
• Asset management support staff