Driving Innovation for a Sustainable Future
At EDP, innovation is key to our commitment to sustainability. Through our Energy Starter program, we seek out and collaborate with groundbreaking startups and scaleups worldwide. In the program’s 8th edition, we connected with Quantified Energy Labs (QELabs), a visionary startup from Singapore specializing in solar assets inspection with electroluminescence technology.
About the Project
QELabs, a startup from the cohort of Energy Starter’s Renewables and Green Hydrogen bootcamp in Singapore, brings a revolutionary approach to solar panel inspections. Their cutting-edge technology, which combines electroluminescence (EL) with drones, is transforming how we monitor and maintain solar assets. This innovation is crucial for:
- Ensuring new solar installations meet the highest standards.
- Optimize maintenance interventions based on deeper understanding of the status of our assets.
- Accurately detecting damage for insurance claims.
- Identifying potential issues before they cause significant problems.
- Protecting the integrity and value of solar assets during sales and acquisitions.
By enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of solar inspections, QELabs' technology aligns perfectly with EDP’s dedication to sustainability and operational excellence.
Impactful Collaboration
Together, EDP and QELabs have launched two successful pilot projects:
- Large-Scale Solar PV Sites: QELabs inspected around 50,000 panels at EDP Renewables solar PV farms in Villacastín and Cruz de Hierro in Spain, detecting cell cracks and verifying manufacturing standards to extend the life and performance of solar projects.
- Rooftop Inspections: QELabs tested their solution on three rooftops of a B2B costumer in Velilla de San Antonio in Spain, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and scaling up maintenance efforts.
These pilots are not just about testing technology—they’re about improving how we operate. By quickly and accurately identifying issues, EDP can optimize its solar assets, leading to more efficient energy production and better use of existing equipment.
Looking Ahead
The success of these pilots positions QE Labs as a transformative player in renewable energy. As our collaboration deepens, EDP remains committed to integrating innovative solutions that drive the global energy transition forward.
This pilot project exemplifies the power of open innovation. By working with QE Labs, EDP is not only enhancing efficiency and reducing costs but also reinforcing our role as a leader in the renewable energy sector. Together, we’re fostering a cleaner, greener world for future generations.