PVGIS.COM vs PVWatts (NREL): Which is the Best Solar Calculator?

solar_pannel

When evaluating the production and profitability of a solar installation, two platforms stand out: PVGIS.COM and PVWatts (NREL).

PVGIS.COM is a scientific and independent platform covering the entire world, offering unmatched precision thanks to its advanced satellite databases and high-level financial analysis.

PVWatts, developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in the United States, is primarily designed for the North American market and provides a simplified estimation.

Which solution should you choose for a reliable, optimized, and globally usable solar simulation? Let’s compare them in detail.

  • PVGIS: Global Coverage, Available in 80+ Languages
  • PVGIS.COM is the only solar simulator that offers a complete and detailed analysis for ALL regions worldwide

It is available in 80+ languages, allowing international users to easily access simulations in their native language.

  • PVWatts, on the other hand, is mainly designed for the United States and covers only a limited part of the globe. Its use outside the North American territory is more approximate, with less precise results.

With PVGIS.COM, any installer, investor, or individual, wherever they are, can obtain a reliable and detailed estimate of their photovoltaic installation.

Comparison Table: PVGIS.COM vs PVWatts (NREL)

Criteria
PVGIS.COM
OmniCalculator
Geographic Coverage
Worldwide, all regions covered
Primarily U.S., less reliable elsewhere
Available Languages
80+ languages, multilingual interface and documentation
English only
Data Accuracy
Advanced satellite and climate data (SARAH, ERA5, etc.)
Based on NSRDB, less accurate outside the USA
Financial Analysis
Detailed ROI & IRR, real cost consideration
Simplified analysis, few financial scenarios
Tilt & Orientation
Advanced simulation tailored to each site
Limited options
Shading & Losses
Detailed and adjustable modeling
Standardized approach
Target Audience
Engineers, installers, investors, institutions
General public, North American companies
Updates & Innovations
Continuous updates of climate and technology data
Fewer global updates
Independence
100% objective, no commercial influence
Developed for the U.S. market

Comparison Conclusion:

PVWatts is useful for quick estimates in the U.S. but less reliable worldwide.
PVGIS.COM is THE GLOBAL REFERENCE, suited for all countries and user profiles, with scientific accuracy and comprehensive financial analysis.

PVGIS.COM: The Leading Global and Independent Solar Simulation Tool

Why is PVGIS.COM the most precise tool?

  • Reliable climate and historical data, used by international researchers and engineers
  • Consideration of regional and seasonal weather variations
  • Optimization of panel tilt and orientation based on exact location
  • Available in 80+ languages, ensuring global accessibility
That’s why PVGIS.COM is used by thousands of solar professionals and investors worldwide.

PVGIS.COM: Advanced and Realistic Financial Analysis

Unlike PVWatts, which provides a very basic financial estimation, PVGIS.COM offers a detailed and investor-friendly analysis.

With PVGIS.COM, you can:

  • Simulate ROI (Return on Investment) and IRR (Internal Rate of Return) based on different economic scenarios
  • Compare multiple financial models based on market fluctuations and tariff policies
  • Estimate real installation, maintenance, and replacement costs of solar panels
  • Incorporate panel degradation and evolving energy tariffs

If you’re looking for a serious and detailed financial analysis, PVGIS.COM is the only solution suited for professionals and investors.

FAQ: PVGIS vs PVWatts

  • Is PVGIS available worldwide?
    Yes! PVGIS.COM covers 100% of the globe, unlike PVWatts, which is limited to the United States and certain regions.
  • Is PVGIS.COM available in multiple languages?
    Yes! PVGIS.COM is accessible in over 80 languages, making it a truly global tool.
What is the difference between PVGIS and PVWatts?
  • PVWatts: A simulator designed for the United States, with a simplified approach
  • PVGIS.COM: A global, precise, and independent simulator with comprehensive economic analysis
  • Which is the best tool for a serious solar project study?
    PVGIS.COM is undoubtedly the best option for a reliable, worldwide, and professional study.

Conclusion: PVGIS.COM, the Ultimate Global and Independent Solar Analysis Tool

  • Available in 80+ languages, PVGIS.COM is the only truly international solar platform
  • Advanced satellite and meteorological data, covering 100% of the globe
  • Comprehensive financial analysis with ROI and IRR simulation
  • Total objectivity, free from commercial influence
Looking for a reliable and complete simulation of your solar production?
Use PVGIS.COM, the reference tool for solar energy experts worldwide.