What is PVGIS? The Complete Guide to Calculating Your Solar Potential

Understanding PVGIS: What Exactly Is It?

PVGIS is a photovoltaic geographical information system that provides precise data on solar radiation and photovoltaic system performance. Developed by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), this tool has been freely accessible online since 2007.

Key Features of PVGIS

PVGIS offers several types of analysis:

• Annual electricity production calculations for photovoltaic systems
• Solar radiation data on monthly and daily basis
• Hourly time series of PV performance
• Solar irradiation maps ready for printing
• Simulations for grid-connected and off-grid systems

How to Use PVGIS to Calculate Your Solar Potential

Step 1: Project Location

Access the PVGIS interface and select your location on the interactive map or enter your precise address.

Step 2: Installation Configuration

Enter your project parameters:

• PV technology: crystalline silicon (recommended)
• Installed capacity in kWp
• Panel tilt (your roof's inclination angle)
• Orientation (azimuth: 0° for true south)
• System losses (14% default)

Step 3: Results Analysis

PVGIS provides:

• Estimated annual production in kWh
• Monthly production graph
• Global irradiation data
• Downloadable PDF report

PVGIS vs PVGIS24: What's the Difference?

PVGIS 5.3 (Free Version)

The classic PVGIS 5.3 offers basic functionality at no cost. Available at pvgis.com/en/pvgis-5-3, it provides a preliminary estimate of your solar potential.

PVGIS24 (Premium Version)

PVGIS24 is the advanced professional version available at pvgis.com/en offering extended functionality through different subscription plans. To choose the plan that fits your specific needs, check out our subscription details. Here are the main options:

FREE Plan ($0)

• Limited PVGIS24 access to 1 section
• 1 user
• Direct PVGIS 5.3 access
• Limited PDF printing

PREMIUM Plan ($9.00)

• Unlimited optimized calculations
• 1 user
• Direct PVGIS 5.3 access
• PDF printing
• Financial revenue simulations

PRO Plan ($19.00)

• 25 calculation credits per month
• 2 users
• All premium features
• Advanced financial simulations
• Online technical support

EXPERT Plan ($29.00)

• 50 calculation credits per month
• 3 users
• Solar autonomy features
• Commercial use authorized

Why Use PVGIS for Your Solar Project?

Data Reliability

PVGIS uses satellite databases (PVGIS-SARAH2, PVGIS-ERA5) that ensure accurate estimates based on years of meteorological measurements.

User-Friendly Interface

The intuitive interface allows both homeowners and professionals to quickly obtain solar production estimates without advanced technical skills.

Investment Decision Support

PVGIS helps you:

• Verify your installer's estimates
• Compare different configurations
• Assess project profitability
• Optimize orientation and tilt angles

Practical Use Cases for PVGIS

For Homeowners

• Size your residential installation
• Verify installer quotes
• Choose between technical options
• Forecast your return on investment

For Professionals

• Client feasibility studies
• Commercial installation sizing
• Existing performance validation
• Professional technical reports

Optimizing Your PVGIS Results

Tips for Accurate Estimates

1. Enter exact address rather than clicking approximately on the map
2. Use GPS coordinates for optimal location accuracy
3. Verify actual roof inclination
4. Consider environment (potential shading)

Recommended Parameters

• Optimal orientation: 0° (true south)
• Ideal tilt: 30-35° in most regions
• Technology: crystalline silicon
• System losses: 14-20% depending on installation quality

PVGIS Limitations to Consider

While highly effective, PVGIS has certain limitations:

• No local shading analysis (buildings, trees)
• No personalized consumption analysis
• No precise self-consumption calculations
• Average data that may vary by year

Alternative and Complementary Tools

Although PVGIS is the reference standard, other tools exist:

• Google Project Sunroof (geographically limited)
• NREL PVWatts
• Local utility calculators
• Private installer simulators

For deeper analysis including self-consumption and financial profitability, PVGIS24 offers advanced features tailored to professional needs.

Conclusion

PVGIS is the global reference tool for estimating photovoltaic potential. Free, reliable, and easy to use, it's an essential prerequisite for any solar project. Whether you're a homeowner or professional, PVGIS helps you make informed decisions based on European scientific data.

The PVGIS24 version available at pvgis.com/en offers advanced professional features for those wanting to go further in their solar project analysis.

Ready to optimize your solar project? If you're looking for in-depth analysis with financial simulations, multi-project management, and professional technical support, explore all our PVGIS24 subscription plans on our dedicated page. Choose the plan that matches your needs and benefit from professional-grade solar calculation tools.

Discover our other guides on solar photovoltaics and PVGIS on our specialized blog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What's the difference between PVGIS and other solar calculators?

PVGIS stands out through its official European data, complete free access, and global coverage. Unlike commercial simulators, PVGIS provides neutral estimates without commercial bias.

Does PVGIS work everywhere in the world?

Yes, PVGIS covers all continents except the North and South Poles. Data is particularly accurate for Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

How does PVGIS account for local weather?

PVGIS uses satellite databases with 15-20 years of meteorological history, including solar radiation, temperature, cloud cover, and other climate variables.

Can we trust PVGIS estimates?

PVGIS estimates are generally reliable within ±5-10% for well-designed installations. They serve as a reference standard in the European solar industry.

Does PVGIS calculate self-consumption?

No, PVGIS only estimates production. For self-consumption analysis, you need complementary tools or the PVGIS24 version which includes advanced financial simulations.

How much does PVGIS cost to use?

Classic PVGIS is completely free. PVGIS24 offers premium plans starting at $9/month for advanced professional features.

Can PVGIS replace a professional technical study?

PVGIS provides an excellent initial estimate, but an on-site study remains recommended to validate shading, roof condition, and optimize final design.

Which PV technology should I choose in PVGIS?

For most residential projects, select "crystalline silicon" which corresponds to the most common and efficient panels on the market.