Complete PVGIS Guide

How to use PVGIS to estimate solar energy production?

PVGIS (Photovoltaic Geographical Information System) is an online tool that allows for accurate estimation of solar energy production. You simply enter your location, the technical characteristics of your photovoltaic system, and your analysis preferences. For example, if you are in Marseille with panels facing due south at a 30° tilt, PVGIS will automatically calculate your expected annual and monthly energy production.

How does PVGIS work to calculate photovoltaic production?

PVGIS uses historical climate data and precise mathematical models, validated by experts, to simulate the solar irradiation received by your system. The tool takes into account the exact location, orientation, panel tilt, and installed power. For instance, a system in Lille with a 35° tilt facing southwest will get results specifically adapted to these local conditions.

What are the steps to use PVGIS?

1 • Go to PVGIS.com.

2 • Select your exact geographical location.

3 • Enter the technical specifications: power, orientation, and tilt.

4 • Start the simulation.

5 • Review and interpret the detailed results.

What parameters should I enter into PVGIS for an accurate simulation?

To get optimal results, enter:

• Your precise geographical location (city or GPS coordinates).
• The nominal power of the system (in kWp).
• The orientation (azimuth), ideally south-facing.
• The tilt of the photovoltaic panels.
• The specific type of solar panel and system used (fixed or with solar tracking).

How to interpret PVGIS results?

The results include:

• Estimated annual energy production in kWh.
• Detailed average monthly production.
• The solar irradiation rate at your location.
• Clear comparisons between multiple configurations.

These results help you precisely optimize your solar installation and maximize its yield.

PVGIS: complete user guide

Our comprehensive guide walks you through each step to easily master PVGIS. Discover all the features through concrete examples and practical tips from real users.

PVGIS tutorial for beginners

Our simplified PVGIS tutorial includes illustrated examples of various solar configurations for quick and intuitive learning.

What is PVGIS?

PVGIS is a geographical information system dedicated to the accurate simulation of global photovoltaic production, accessible for free online.

Definition of PVGIS

PVGIS (Photovoltaic Geographical Information System) is a globally recognized scientific tool that calculates solar energy production based on precise geographical and climate data.

What is the purpose of PVGIS?

PVGIS helps determine the feasibility and profitability of solar installations precisely, enabling informed decision-making through reliable and detailed simulations.

What are PVGIS features?

• Photovoltaic production simulation
• Detailed access to historical solar irradiation data
• Comparison of different scenarios
• In-depth analysis of the impact of technical characteristics on production

Overview of PVGIS

PVGIS combines scientific accuracy with accessibility, meeting the needs of both professionals and individuals interested in solar energy.

PVGIS: simple explanation

PVGIS easily and accurately tells you how much solar energy you can produce, free of charge and without complexity.

Official PVGIS website

Use the official PVGIS tool at PVGIS.com for fast and reliable results.

PVGIS online calculation tool

Easily access the PVGIS tool online to perform your personalized photovoltaic simulations.

Access to the PVGIS platform

The PVGIS platform is directly accessible from any web browser, no download required.

Link to PVGIS

Click here to access PVGIS: pvgis.com

Where to find PVGIS?

PVGIS is freely accessible online via the official PVGIS.com website, ensuring quick access to its many features.

How to compare photovoltaic systems with PVGIS?

With PVGIS, easily test several technical configurations to identify the one that maximizes solar production for your location.

Use PVGIS to optimize a solar installation

Optimize your photovoltaic system using PVGIS by simulating different technical combinations, such as orientation or tilt, for optimal yield.

Simulating different photovoltaic scenarios with PVGIS

Easily run various simulations with PVGIS to find the ideal photovoltaic setup, illustrated by real-world examples of successful optimization.

PVGIS solar irradiation data

Obtain accurate local solar irradiation data with PVGIS, useful for your solar projects.

Download data from PVGIS

Easily download historical and climate data provided by PVGIS for your detailed analyses.

Access to PVGIS historical data

PVGIS provides full access to historical data essential for evaluating long-term solar performance.

What databases does PVGIS use?

PVGIS uses the most recognized climate databases, such as CM-SAF and ERA5, thus ensuring the accuracy and reliability of simulations.