Thermal technology combined with video analytics, the most effective solution for protecting photovoltaic plants

In the race to meet sustainability targets around the world, renewable energy industries are growing stronger year after year. One of these is solar energy, which, according to the European association Solar Power Europe, will account for 20% of Europe's electricity demand by 2030. This is partly due to the fact that solar energy production costs have fallen dramatically: by 90% between 2009 and 2023. To meet this growing demand, solar energy providers are turning to smart technologies to optimise their operations, as well as solutions that efficiently protect their photovoltaic plants.

Photovoltaic plants, with their vast areas and complex systems, require advanced security solutions to protect them against intrusions, vandalism, and other risks. The combined solutions from Hikvision and DAVANTIS provide seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and economic efficiency.

Thermal technology cameras are the most suitable option for security in photovoltaic plants, as they do not require the presence of light. Their thermal sensors detect the emissivity and low-level radiation emitted by all surfaces at different levels, allowing various problems to be identified and intruder access to the area to be detected. There are numerous benefits to using thermal cameras in photovoltaic plants. They enable constant and effective surveillance, detect maintenance issues, and improve response times to intrusions and emergencies. Hikvision, our leading partner in video surveillance technology, offers a complete range of these advanced solutions.

These types of thermal solutions should be accompanied by efficient video analysis. To this end, we offer two types of analytics: embedded within the camera or through third-party analytics software.

Thermal cameras without embedded analytics offer a more economical option without sacrificing image quality and durability, and can be easily integrated with more powerful video analytics solutions.

Specialised video analytics software uses deep learning technology to distinguish between human intruders and other objects, such as animals, branches and other non-human elements. This level of control, combined with thermal imaging, improves the ability to distinguish the type of intrusion or incident, thereby significantly reducing false alarms and associated operating costs.

On the other hand, thermal cameras with embedded analytics incorporate artificial intelligence directly into the device, offering advanced detection of intruders and suspicious events without the need for additional systems, providing an all-in-one solution that reduces the need for complementary hardware and software.

For integrators looking for an option without embedded analytics, Hommax recommends the Hikvision 2138 Q (Lite) series. These models provide exceptional image quality, with a 12 μm sensor and 384 × 288 resolution, available in different lenses:

- 10mm - DS-2TD2138-10/Q (Lite)

- 15mm - DS-2TD2138-15/Q(Lite)

- 25mm - DS-2TD2138-25/Q(Lite)

- 7mm - DS-2TD2138-7/Q(Lite)

In partnership with DAVANTIS, a leader in intelligent video analysis, Hommax offers seamless integration of technologies for complete security. DAVANTIS provides advanced intrusion detection and video analysis solutions that perfectly complement Hikvision cameras.

Available technologies:

- DAVIEW 2018 servers and licences – S and LR channels (recommended for thermal cameras only).

- DAVIEW servers – S and LR channels (recommended for thermal cameras only).

- DFUSION DFUSIONPRO servers.

- DFUSION MINI devices (recommended for D/N cameras only).

The Hikvision 2138/QY series offers security cameras with embedded analytics, a 12 μm sensor, and 384 × 288 resolution for intelligent intrusion detection.

This analytics has 4 detection rules (line crossing, intrusion, zone entry, and zone exit) and the ability to configure up to 8 rules simultaneously.

Available lenses:

- 13mm - DS-2TD2138-13/QY

- 15mm - DS-2TD2138-15/QY

- 25mm - DS-2TD2138-25/QY

- 35mm - DS-2TD2138-35/QY

- 4mm - DS-2TD2138-4/QY

- 7mm - DS-2TD2138-7/QY

Hommax is your trusted partner in photovoltaic plant protection, thanks to the expertise of our engineering team, which creates customised security system designs and provides on-site support to ensure successful implementation.

We have stock available for immediate delivery of the latest solutions from Hikvision and DAVANTIS for photovoltaic installations.

Trust Hommax to protect your photovoltaic assets with cutting-edge technology, at the best prices on the market and with expert, personalised advice. Together we can find the perfect solution for your security needs.