Customer Insights: Reducing Risk and Cost in Solar Projects with Aerial Surveys

We recently sat down with one of our solar developer customers to hear how they are using Above during the construction phase of their projects. These conversations are always valuable because they show us how our platform fits into the day-to-day challenges of delivering a solar farm on time and on budget.

Here are some of the insights that stood out during the call.

Lenders need clear evidence

For any project backed by debt financing, lenders expect regular construction updates. Our customer explained how they rely on Above to provide their lenders with a monthly snapshot of progress. Adding clear aerial imagery alongside progress reports gives everyone more confidence in the data. As they put it, an image really does speak a thousand words.

Fewer site visits for milestone payments

Owner’s engineers are usually required to sign off milestones before payments are released. This often means costly site visits. Our customer shared how they used Above’s imagery to verify certain milestones remotely, such as module deliveries and installation progress. In their last project this approach saved three to four site visits by the owner’s engineer, which meant real time and cost savings.

An independent record of progress

Construction projects do not always go to plan. When their EPC fell behind schedule, our customer found Above’s surveys provided a reliable record of exactly what work had been completed and when. This gave them a clear picture of progress against the contract and an objective source of truth that could be used if disputes arose.

Transparency for all stakeholders

In some cases the developer has given the EPC access to Above’s platform. This way both sides are working from the same information, which helps to build trust and avoid unnecessary friction.

Spotting problems before it is too late

Perhaps the most striking point was around anticipating issues. In one project the EPC had confirmed that structures were delivered and installation had started. A drone survey told a different story. Without Above, the developer would not have known about the delay until much later. Having that visibility helped them act quickly and protect energisation deadlines.

What this means going forward

The call highlighted just how important it is to combine accurate data with clear communication during construction. It also gave us some ideas for the future. For example, milestone verification could be supported directly through our platform with imagery and checklists, helping to further reduce the need for site visits.

Final thoughts

Conversations like this remind us why Above exists. Our role is to give developers, EPCs and lenders greater visibility so they can reduce risk, avoid unnecessary costs and keep projects on track. Hearing first-hand how our surveys are used in real projects is the best feedback we can get and it drives us to keep improving.

If you are interested in using Above please book a demo.