Innovative Drone-Based Theft Prevention Service for Solar Power Plants

In an effort to combat the increasing incidents of cable theft at high-voltage solar power plants, OF Corporation has teamed up with TRIPLE7, a company that operates the NAPA Drone Academy. Together, they are working to develop and implement a state-of-the-art security service utilizing drone technology. By leveraging the capabilities of drones, including rapid mobility and human sensor technologies, they aim to establish a more effective and cost-efficient theft prevention solution.

The Rising Threat of Cable Theft

With solar power becoming more widely used in Japan, incidents of cable theft have surged, prompting power plants to enhance their security measures. Traditional methods, such as deploying security personnel, installing surveillance cameras, and using various sensor technologies, have proven to be both costly and somewhat ineffective in deterring theft. OF Corporation has firsthand experience with these challenges and is motivated to seek better solutions.

Recognizing the limitations of conventional security systems, the collaboration with TRIPLE7 focuses on utilizing drones for their superior surveillance capabilities. Drones can provide real-time monitoring and rapid response, making them ideal for enhancing security at solar power facilities.

Field Testing in Tochigi

A significant testing phase took place in July 2025 at a high-voltage solar power plant in Tochigi Prefecture, which had previously experienced multiple thefts. The testing involved drones like the DJI Dock 3 and Matrice 4TD, and it aimed to assess their effectiveness both during the day and at night. Key areas of evaluation included:

1. Deterrent Effects (Nighttime Focus)

- Evaluating the visual deterrence effect of spotlight illumination.
- Assessing the psychological impact of various speaker volumes, languages, and messages.
- Testing different siren types for effectiveness and composition.

2. Sensor Detection Accuracy (Day and Night)

- Performance of infrared cameras in detecting intruders based on distance, angle, and height.
- Evaluating detection differences caused by thermal environmental variations at different times of day.
- Assessing the integration of visible cameras with zoom and angle settings.

3. Flight Stability and Autonomous Operation Feasibility (Daytime Focus)

- Checking communication and sensor robustness.
- Monitoring battery life and operational time.
- Setting waypoints to navigate through different terrains and obstacles.

Results of the Testing

The results from the field tests confirmed that using drones for monitoring and deterrence is highly effective in preventing theft activities. It was determined that the optimization of patrol routes and the number of drones deployed should be tailored to the specific layout and location of the facilities. Additionally, considerations regarding potential noise and light disturbances to nearby residents were identified as essential aspects to address on a case-by-case basis.

Next Steps for OF Corporation

Looking ahead, OF Corporation is ready to advance to the next phase of the project. This includes testing API integrations with surveillance cameras and automated drone flights linked with 24-hour monitoring centers. Furthermore, collaboration with insurance companies is being explored to expand coverage options for facilities that implement this service, ultimately creating a secure environment for solar power operators.

About OF Corporation

Established in July 2003 and headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, OF Corporation provides a comprehensive range of services in network and energy infrastructure, including design, construction, and maintenance operations—serving over 1,500 facilities nationwide. They also offer maintenance services for battery storage and solar power systems. With a focus on responding promptly to the rapidly shifting needs of society, OF aims to continuously evolve and deliver one-stop services that transcend traditional boundaries in telecommunications and energy sectors.

For more information, visit OF Corporation or their solar management service, Hatsuden Kanri Ningen.

About TRIPLE7

Located in Shibuya, Tokyo, and founded on July 7, 2022, TRIPLE7 specializes in operating a nationally certified drone school and consulting for business drone integration. For more information, visit TRIPLE7 or the NAPA Drone Academy at NAPA.