The photovoltaic solar energy sector has experienced remarkable growth across Europe, establishing the region as a benchmark in renewable energy generation. According to data from SolarPower Europe, 41.4 GW of new photovoltaic capacity was added across the European Union in 2022, marking a 47% increase compared to the previous year (SolarPower Europe, 2022).
This progress positions Europe among the leading regions globally in solar expansion, although it still trails behind countries like China and the United States in terms of total installed capacity. Nevertheless, Europe’s commitment to increasing the share of clean energy continues to drive the development of new projects, reinforcing the European Union’s role as a leader in the transition to renewable energy sources and in reducing carbon emissions.
The growth of these types of facilities has brought with it the need to implement robust security systems to protect both infrastructure and assets, as they tend to occupy large areas in rural or isolated areas, making them vulnerable to vandalism, theft and damage to their components.
With the outlook for growth on the rise, we find out what are the keys to ensuring safety in photovoltaic parks:
1. Perimeter Security
Perimeter security is one of the most critical aspects. These facilities are often located in open and sometimes remote areas, making them easy targets for intruders. The first step is to establish a secure perimeter with intelligent security systems that use technologies capable of detecting intrusions from several kilometers away, even in adverse weather and lighting conditions. Part of the thefts and damages in solar parks are due to the lack of a secure perimeter or an insufficient surveillance system. This is why it is essential to use perimeter detection technologies connected to control centers.
SCATI’s ThermalScan cameras are designed to cover several kilometers without leaving blind spots. Thanks to their high rotation speed and optical stabilization technology, these cameras are capable of monitoring irregular perimeters and hard-to-reach areas common in this type of installation.
ThermalScan technology offers numerous advantages over traditional high-frequency video and radio systems. Conventional video solutions often fail due to blind spots, while radio systems suffer from range limitations and operational difficulties caused by wave reflections from the PV panels themselves. ThermalScan overcomes these limitations, providing accurate and reliable detection even in environments with high interference, thus ensuring superior performance in critical surveillance scenarios.
2. Intelligent Video Surveillance Systems
Video surveillance systems play a crucial role. These systems allow large tracts of land to be monitored remotely, which is vital due to the isolated locations of these lands. The installation of high-resolution video surveillance cameras, connected to 24/7 monitoring centers, is a common practice.
Today, the integration of cameras with artificial intelligence and video analytics makes it possible to identify unusual movements and issue automatic alerts. Video analytics, especially those powered by AI and deeplearning, are revolutionizing both security and business intelligence. In this regard, SCATI ANALYTICS offers a comprehensive set of tools that enable valuable real-time information to be obtained from camera images.
SCATI ANALYTICS achieves more efficient security and operations management. By minimizing false alarms and personalizing alerts and events, it ensures that resources are used in the most effective way, improving incident response and optimizing operational management.
3. Access Control
Access control is another fundamental aspect. The implementation of biometric identification systems, access cards or LPR (License Plate Recognition) for license plate reading at vehicle entry and exit is key to controlling access to unauthorized persons.
In this regard, SCATI offers a comprehensive access control solution composed of an ecosystem of hardware devices and a management software platform, SCATI ACCESS.
SCATI ACCESS is designed and developed on open standards, this software offers a solid, reliable and scalable solution to protect facilities with maximum guarantees. A solution based on advanced technologies that reduce the possibility of identity theft and ensure that only authorized persons can access those areas allowed.
4. Integration Of Systems
The integration of security systems and other subsystems of the plant is essential for the efficient management of the facility and its security. A platform that allows remote monitoring of cameras, sensors and control systems, industrial, fire, access, etc., thus reducing the need for unnecessary trips to the plant, will optimize resources and generate more effective management.
SCATI SENTRY integrates multiple systems, such as CCTV, access, intrusion, perimeter detection, fire, industrial systems, lighting or air conditioning among others in a single interface, which facilitates the total control of the plant in real time.
The platform stands out for its ability to automate responses and analyze live data, identifying suspicious patterns and enabling immediate action in the event of incidents. With its scalable and flexible approach, SCATI SENTRY ensures simplified management and efficient investment to maintain the safety and continuous operation of solar plants, being able to operate remotely without the need to travel to the installation.
Comprehensive security strategy for photovoltaic farms with SCATI
The accelerated growth of photovoltaic parks in Brazil has increased the importance of having physical security systems that protect both the facilities and the valuable assets they house. Perimeter security, video surveillance with AI, access control and system integration are 4 essential components of a comprehensive security strategy in this sector. If you want to protect your photovoltaic plant with the latest technologies, do not hesitate to contact us. We will inform you without obligation.
SCATI has more than 25 years of experience in the protection of photovoltaic plants in: Spain, Portugal, Mexico, Guatemala, Bolivia, etc.