Poland's PGE launches drone inspections of residential solar installations

PGE Dystrybucja will deploy a fleet of 31 drones to identify rooftop photovoltaic systems whose actual capacity exceeds the parameters declared to the grid operator. The operator says that such discrepancies can destabilise the electricity network, cause voltage spikes, damage consumer equipment and in extreme cases lead to fires or blackouts. Prosumer owners will first receive a written notice requesting correction of their data; if they fail to comply within the deadline, a physical inspection may be carried out. Non‑compliance can result in fines, limitations on the installation’s operation, disconnection from the grid, or claims for compensation for any damage caused to other users. New regulations also give operators the right to monitor, adjust power output or even shut down micro‑installations of 0.8‑50 kW to protect grid stability, affecting an estimated 5 % of such installations nationwide.