Unlocking Efficiency for Solar Development
As Ireland accelerates toward decarbonisation, solar energy offers a scalable, low-impact solution to diversify our national energy mix. However, successful solar development relies on accurate site assessment, efficient data acquisition, and informed environmental planning.
At Entrust Services, we use advanced drone technology as part of our survey methodology, delivering high-resolution terrain data faster, safer, and with greater precision than traditional techniques can offer
Modernising the Survey Process
Traditional land surveys, while accurate, often present challenges like;
● Labour-intensive and weather-dependent fieldwork
● Extended timelines across large or complex sites
● Increased upfront costs and duplicated effort
By contrast, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), equipped with geospatial imaging systems, allow us to survey expansive areas in a fraction of the time.
Comprehensive Aerial Intelligence
Our drones are much more than cameras in the sky. They are integrated with:
● High-resolution imaging to capture granular landscape features
● RTK-enabled GPS systems for precision positioning
● Multispectral and LiDAR capabilities for terrain and vegetation analysis
From day one, this comprehensive data provides developers with a foundational understanding of a site’s constraints and opportunities.
Transforming Data into Development-Ready Models
Post-processing is where raw data becomes real value. At Entrust Services, we apply a rigorous geospatial workflow using platforms such as Agisoft, CloudCompare, Pix4D, and QGIS to deliver fit-for-purpose digital outputs.
Our process includes:
● Multi-stage photogrammetry and orthomosaic generation
● Point cloud densification and 3D terrain reconstruction
● Adaptive meshing and texturing for visualisation-ready models
● Precision alignment via ground control points and satellite references
Where appropriate, satellite imagery is also integrated to cross-verify topography and optimise georeferencing accuracy — ensuring reliable, sub-centimetre precision for Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and orthorectified base mapping.
Supporting Data-Led Decision-Making in Renewables
These data products allow developers to:
● Accurately assess solar exposure, shading patterns, and drainage
● Design layouts in line with local environmental sensitivities
● Mitigate risk early in the project lifecycle
● Reduce overall time to planning approval
From feasibility right through to delivery, our drone-enabled surveys support a more informed development process for solar infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
The intersection of aerial technology and renewable energy is helping to redefine sustainable development. At Entrust Services, we are proud to support solar energy clients through innovation, precision, and environmental stewardship.
