{"id":9669,"date":"2023-06-08T11:26:48","date_gmt":"2023-06-08T09:26:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/reuniwatt.com\/en\/?p=9669"},"modified":"2023-06-08T12:19:36","modified_gmt":"2023-06-08T10:19:36","slug":"meteo-data-quality-basics-solarplant","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/reuniwatt.com\/en\/industry-news\/meteo-data-quality-basics-solarplant\/","title":{"rendered":"Meteo Data Quality: Don’t overlook the basics"},"content":{"rendered":"

Weather and environmental parameters are key factors affecting PV performance. Over the years, the accuracy of the yield prediction has increased. Still, the fundamental question remains when considering development of a new solar plant: <\/strong>h<\/strong>ow much energy will it generate?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Many parameters are subject to tough discussions between a project\u2019s different stakeholders. One of them is future performance, and the question regarding solar resource holds an important role: in any place, its annual variability impacts the plant\u2019s performance more than any other single parameter. An erroneous estimation during the pre-commissioning phase and\/or when the plant is operational can have serious and sometimes unforeseen repercussions. The quality of the solar resource estimation, either measured on site or provided by satellite data, should be carefully checked and evaluated.<\/p>\n

Solar resource assessment methods
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Different methods exist to measure and estimate solar radiation components. But what are the most appropriate tool(s)?<\/p>\n

Estimating solar radiation data from satellite data has been acknowledged as the best method if no local, well-calibrated weather station is available. It is also the best solution to obtain historical performance estimations. Its benefits include the reliable availability of high quality data in near real-time, and the fact that no on-site installations are required. Another option is the installation of instruments on-site, to obtain high-quality in-situ measurements. It is important, however, to remember that a sensor\u2019s exact location is a key aspect, and any radiometer should be installed on a structure set up in the appropriate angle.\u00a0In addition, calibration and especially maintenance play an important role in the performance of ground instruments. For troubleshooting, it is useful to verify whether the failures are specific to one sensor or if they are recurring over a period of time. Reliable and accurate irradiance data is crucial for establishing a robust foundation that serves both technical and financial business needs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>

Learn more about Meteorological Data Quality
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Many parameters must be taken into account to predict and monitor the performance of PV assets. But the complexity and refinements of those models tend to distract us from the fundamentals. A proper solar resource assessment is irreplaceable and should not be overlooked! The white paper High-quality weather data: A key element to assess your PV plants\u2019 current performance <\/em><\/strong>published by Reuniwatt, Power Factors and Everoze allows you to learn more about:<\/p>\n