PVGIS.COM SOLAR PANEL CALCULATOR

The simulations offered on PVGIS.COM are designed to meet the diverse needs of professionals as well
as individuals in the solar energy sector. This service is supported by a consortium of European experts in solar energy and engineers, ensuring both independent and neutral expertise. Here are the main stakeholders and objectives associated with the simulations:

Target Audience for Simulations

  • Solar Installers: Professionalize the financial analysis of solar projects through simulations that incorporate accurate data regarding costs and energy yield.
  • Project Developers: Optimize the technical design as well as the overall profitability of solar projects to maximize return on investment.
  • Energy Consultants: Provide reliable technical analyses to guide informed decisions regarding the viability of solar projects.
  • End Clients: Offer impartial and independent financial oversight to assess solar installation business proposals.

Key Features of the Simulations

  • Accuracy and Reliability: Relying on high-quality meteorological data, the simulations offer trustworthy results that allow for an accurate
    assessment of energy production.
  • Ease of Use: An intuitive interface allows users, whether novices or experts, to perform simulations in just a few simple steps.
    Technical support is also available to assist users throughout the process.
  • Flexibility and Adaptability: PVGIS.COM offers various subscription plans tailored to the specific needs of businesses, whether small
    or large, while providing the option to purchase additional credits for performing more simulations if needed.

Affordable subscriptions to support solar energy

At PVGIS.COM, we have chosen to offer subscriptions at affordable rates, designed more as a contribution to the development of renewable energies than as a simple commercial transaction. Our ambition is to provide quality tools at a reasonable price, adapted to the realities of solar professionals.
This approach reflects our commitment to an inclusive energy transition. We believe that making solar technical and financial simulations accessible to all installers, engineers and developers is essential to accelerate the adoption of renewable energies worldwide.

Why a very accessible tariff?

  • 1 • A choice of solidarity: Our subscriptions give every player, whatever their size, access to high-performance tools.
  • 2 • A commitment to development: Your subscriptions contribute directly to improving our platform and building capacity in the solar sector.
  • 3 • A tool for everyone: We prioritize financial accessibility to ensure that no one is held back in their projects by high access costs.

With PVGIS.COM, every subscription represents a contribution to the building of the solar future.

Explore PVGIS.COM for several days without obligation and discover how to maximize the performance of your solar projects.

Here are the main advantages of PVGIS.COM for professionals and individuals in the solar energy sector:

1. Accuracy and Reliability of Data

PVGIS.COM uses updated weather data from reliable sources to provide accurate simulations of solar irradiation,
temperatures, and other critical factors affecting energy production. This allows users to make reliable forecasts about
long-term solar energy production.

2. Global Geographic Coverage

PVGIS.COM covers data for virtually all regions of the world, making it an adaptable tool for international projects.
Whether you are in Europe, Africa, Asia, or the Americas, PVGIS.COM provides reliable data for each geographic area.

3. Ease of Use

The intuitive interface of PVGIS.COM makes the platform accessible to everyone, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
Simulations are easy to initiate, and results are available in easily usable formats (HTML, CSV, PDF), allowing users to analyze and share the results.

4. Customization of Simulations

PVGIS.COM allows for customization of simulations based on specific parameters such as photovoltaic panel technology
(monocrystalline, polycrystalline, etc.), tilt, azimuth, and installed power, thus providing results tailored to individual projects.

5. Free Access to Many Features

PVGIS.COM offers a large part of its features for free, making it accessible to small businesses and individuals who wish
to analyze the feasibility of a solar project without investing in costly tools.

6. Support for the Energy Transition

By providing tools to estimate solar energy production and promoting transparency in the financial and technical assessments of projects,
PVGIS.COM supports efforts to promote renewable energy and the transition to a cleaner energy future.

These advantages make PVGIS.COM an essential tool for anyone involved in solar energy, whether they are installers,
project developers, or energy consultants.

The simulations provided by PVGIS.COM are extremely versatile and suitable for various types of solar projects.
Here are some examples of solar projects that can benefit from PVGIS.COM simulations:

1. Residential solar projects

Individuals wishing to install solar panels on their homes can use PVGIS.COM to simulate energy production based on
location, panel tilt, and available solar radiation. This allows estimating profitability, energy savings, and payback period.

2. Commercial solar projects

Companies looking to reduce their energy costs through the installation of solar panels can utilize PVGIS.COM to analyze the feasibility
and performance of a photovoltaic system on commercial or industrial buildings. PVGIS.COM enables estimating potential economies of scale
and the long-term impact on energy costs.

3. Solar power plant projects (large scale)

For developers of large solar power plants, PVGIS.COM provides essential data on solar irradiation, optimal tilt, and expected annual energy production.
This helps maximize project profitability while providing reliable data to attract investors.

4. Projects in remote areas

PVGIS.COM can be used for solar projects in rural or isolated areas, where grid connection is difficult or expensive.
Thanks to its data on local solar irradiation, it allows simulating the production capacity for off-grid solar projects, such as
standalone photovoltaic installations.

5. Energy storage integration projects

The simulations from PVGIS.COM can also be used to analyze the performance of solar systems coupled with energy storage solutions (batteries), optimizing the sizing of these systems for the specific needs of a site or project.

6. Solar projects in complex conditions

PVGIS also offers simulations suitable for projects located in complex environments, such as areas with significant relief or obstacles creating shading, in order to accurately assess potential solar energy production while considering local conditions.

In summary, PVGIS.COM is a useful simulation tool for all types of solar projects, from small residential installations to large commercial power plants,
including projects in remote areas or complex systems with storage.

PVGIS.COM offers different subscriptions tailored to the needs of installers and solar project developers, including all the following features:
  • Unlimited solar and financial simulations per project
  • PDF and printing of simulations
  • Project saving and online technical support.
  • Commercial use permitted

PVGIS24 Prime

  • 10 project credits per month.
  • 1 user
  • Cost: 9€ per month.

PVGIS24 Premium

  • 25 project credits per month.
  • 1 user
  • Cost: 19€ per month.

PVGIS24 Pro

  • 50 project credits per month.
  • 2 users
  • Cost: 29€ per month.

PVGIS24 Expert

  • 100 project credits per month.
  • 3 users
  • Cost: 39€ per month.

These subscriptions allow for accurate and reliable simulations while offering flexible options based on the size and needs of businesses.

To choose the right PVGIS.COM subscription, several criteria should be considered based on your specific needs and your activity
in the solar sector. Here are some tips to guide you in your choice:

1. Nature of your activity

  • Solar installers: If you are an installer, you need to regularly access simulations to assess the solar energy production of the projects you are carrying out for your clients. A subscription with unlimited access to simulations and complete reports might be more suitable for regular monitoring.
  • Project developers: You are probably looking to optimize solar projects technically and financially. A more comprehensive subscription
    with advanced features such as profitability optimization or multi-site simulations might be necessary.
  • Energy consultants: If you provide advice to companies or investors, a subscription that includes detailed, downloadable reports
    in PDF or CSV format, and accurate data for each site is essential for providing reliable analyses.
  • Individuals or small businesses: If your need is more occasional or limited to a single project, a basic or free subscription might suffice.

2. Frequency of use

  • Regular use: If you need to perform simulations several times a month for different projects, it is advisable to opt for a subscription
    with unlimited access or a large number of monthly credits.
  • Occasional use: If you only need to run a few simulations, a subscription with a limited number of credits per month might be more cost-effective.

3. Required level of detail

  • Basic analyses: If you need simple and quick estimates on solar production, a basic or intermediate subscription may suffice.
  • Advanced analyses: If you need to produce in-depth technical reports or carry out simulations on multiple photovoltaic technologies, you will likely need to choose a more advanced subscription, with access to additional features such as comparative analyses or complex weather data.

4. Project size

  • Small projects: For small-scale projects, such as residential installations or small businesses, a standard subscription should meet your needs.
  • Large commercial projects: If you are working on large-scale solar parks, a premium subscription will be necessary to ensure accurate data and advanced simulations on a larger scale.

5. Budget

  • Compare the different subscription plans available and choose the one that best suits your needs while respecting your budget. Subscriptions can vary based on the number of simulations, the complexity of reports, and access to advanced technical data.

Conclusion:
Choosing the right subscription depends on usage frequency, project size, the level of detail required, and your budget.

Feel free to contact PVGIS.COM directly to obtain a personalized quote tailored to your specific projects.

PVGIS does not offer a free trial period. However, to allow users to explore the platform's features without fully committing from the first 3 months, a 50% discount on the subscription price is applied for the first 3 months of registration. This allows users to test PVGIS’s simulation and analysis tools at a reduced rate before moving to the full price.
To sign up and benefit from the 50% discount on the first 3 months of subscription, follow these steps:

1. Go to the PVGIS.COM website: Visit the official PVGIS website to create your account.

2. Create an account: Click on "Sign Up" or "Create an Account" at the top of the homepage. Fill in the required information, such as your name, email address, and a password.

3. Choose a subscription: Select the desired subscription from the available options (PRIME, PREMIUM, PRO, EXPERT). The price for the first 3 months will automatically be reduced by 50%.

4. Confirm your account: A verification email will be sent to activate your account. Click on the confirmation link to complete the registration.

5. Explore PVGIS features: Once activated, you can access PVGIS solar simulation and analysis tools, with the 50% discount applied to your first 3 months.

For any questions or assistance, you can contact the PVGIS.COM technical support for information on subscriptions and discovery options suited to your needs.

To sign up for a free trial on PVGIS, follow these steps:

1. Access the PVGIS.COM website: Go to the official website of PVGIS.COM.

2. Create an account: Click on "Sign Up" or "Create an Account" at the top of the homepage.
You will need to provide basic information such as your name, email address, and a password.

3. Select the free trial offer: Once your account is created, you can take advantage of the free trial offer if it is available.
This will allow you to test the features of PVGIS.COM and perform simulations without commitment.

4. Email verification: A confirmation email will be sent to validate your account. Click the link in the email to activate your trial.

5. Start using PVGIS.COM: After activation, you can start exploring the various features and solar simulation tools
offered by PVGIS.COM.

If you cannot directly find the free trial option on the site, do not hesitate to contact PVGIS.COM's technical support
to learn more about the availability of free trials and subscription options that suit your needs.

To maximize the use of PVGIS simulations, it is essential to optimize the parameters and understand the data provided by the tool.
Here are some tips to make the most of it:

1. Properly configure the simulation parameters

  • Enter the exact location: Use precise GPS coordinates or accurately select the location on the map to obtain precise results
    based on local weather data.
  • Choose the right solar panel technology: PVGIS.COM allows you to choose from several photovoltaic technologies (monocrystalline,
    polycrystalline, etc.). Ensure you select the technology you plan to use so that the simulation reflects the behavior of your panels accurately.
  • Tilt and orientation: Adjust the tilt and azimuth of the panels in the simulator to optimize solar production based on
    local geography.

2. Understand and interpret the results

  • Use solar irradiation maps: The maps provided by PVGIS.COM are based on detailed weather data and help you understand the solar potential of your location.
  • Analyze monthly and annual production: PVGIS.COM provides estimates of monthly and annual production in kWh. Compare these values to your energy consumption to assess whether the solar installation can meet your needs.
  • Consumption coverage rate: If you aim for self-consumption, adjust the system size to maximize the coverage of your electricity consumption.

3. Multi-site and comparative simulations

  • If you are developing projects at multiple sites, use PVGIS.COM to compare potential yields at different locations to determine the best sites for solar installation.
  • Compare technologies: PVGIS.COM Test different configurations and panel technologies to identify which offers the best return on investment based on local conditions.

4. Use detailed reports

  • Download results in CSV or PDF formats for further analysis. You can share this data with investors or partners, or use it to adjust your technical design.
  • Analyze financial scenarios: If you combine the results from PVGIS.COM with financial analyses, you will be able to better estimate the profitability of your project by considering the cost of panels, installation, and maintenance.

5. Perform seasonal simulations

  • Take into account seasonal variations in sunlight. By using the data from PVGIS.COM, you can predict how your solar system
    will perform during winter months when solar irradiation is lower.

6. Combine PVGIS.COM with other tools

  • PVGIS.COM provides a solid foundation for solar simulations, but you can maximize its utility by integrating it with other software or solar project management tools (like Helioscope or Aurora Solar) to obtain even more detailed data on site conditions, financing options, or installation configurations.

By following these steps, you will maximize the efficiency of the simulations provided by PVGIS.COM and improve the performance and profitability
of your solar projects.

Yes, PVGIS can be used for off-grid (autonomous) projects, meaning solar systems that are not connected to the power grid. This tool allows you to assess the energy production of an autonomous photovoltaic system and to consider specific parameters for this type of installation, such as battery capacity and daily energy consumption.

How does PVGIS help with off-grid projects?

  • 1. Calculation of solar production: PVGIS allows you to estimate solar energy production based on geographical location and climatic conditions. This helps to properly size a solar system to meet the energy needs of an autonomous site.
  • 2. Considering batteries: For an off-grid system, it is crucial to properly size the battery to store the energy produced for use at night or during cloudy days.
  • 3. Analysis of energy needs: You can also provide daily energy consumption needs to see if the autonomous system can cover these needs with the available solar panels and batteries.
  • 4. Simulation of losses: PVGIS takes into account losses in photovoltaic systems, including conversion losses (for example, between the panels and the battery), which is particularly important for off-grid systems, where storage efficiency is crucial.

Export results

As with grid-connected projects, you can export results as a CSV or PDF file for further analysis or to share data with your partners or clients.

IN SUMMARY:
PVGIS is a powerful tool for simulating off-grid projects, helping you to properly size panels, batteries, and anticipate energy needs to ensure optimal operation of the autonomous system.
To try these features, you can go directly to the PVGIS.COM website.

Yes, it is possible to export the simulations carried out on PVGIS. After performing a simulation, you can download the results in various formats for further analysis or to share with colleagues, clients, or partners.

Available export options

  • 1. CSV format: PVGIS allows you to download the simulation results in CSV (Comma-Separated Values) format, which is convenient
    for detailed analysis in software like Excel or Google Sheets. This allows you to manipulate the data and explore different scenarios.
  • 2. PDF format: Users can also download a complete PDF report. This report includes a visual and textual summary of the results,
    including graphs on estimated energy production, losses, and other key parameters.
  • 3. HTML reports: The simulation results can also be displayed as a web page (HTML), allowing them to be viewed
    directly in a browser or shared via a link.

Exporting simulations is a major asset of PVGIS, as it allows for easy storage and analysis of simulation results across multiple projects or technologies.
To access these features, you can simply run a simulation on the PVGIS website and choose the export option that suits you.

1. Initial Diagnosis of the Solar Installation

  • Use PVGIS.COM to assess expected production based on location and installation characteristics
    (orientation, tilt, capacity). Compare these results with actual production to identify any discrepancies.

2. Equipment Verification

  • Solar Panels: Examine the integrity of the panels and connections.
  • Inverter: Check error indicators and alert codes.
  • Wiring and Protections: Look for signs of overheating or corrosion, check the insulation of cables.

3. Essential Electrical Measurements (performed by a qualified electrician)

  • Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) and Production Current (Imppt): Measure values on the panels to verify compliance with the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Isolation Fault Detection: Test for faults between the panels and ground using a voltmeter.

4. Customization of Simulations

  • Tilt and Orientation: Ensure that the panels are installed according to recommendations to maximize solar exposure.
  • Shading: Identify any sources of shade that may affect production.

5. Identification and Resolution of Common Failures

  • Low Production: Check sunlight exposure and use tools like a solarimeter to measure irradiance.
  • Inverter Issues: Analyze error codes and check the history of overvoltages or undervoltages.

6. Performance Monitoring

  • Install an intelligent monitoring system to track real-time production and receive alerts in case of abnormal drops.

7. Preventive Maintenance

  • Schedule regular inspections to check the condition of the panels, cables, and electrical connections.
  • Regularly clean the panels to ensure their efficiency.

This guide helps structure installers' approach to effectively diagnosing and maintaining solar systems.
If you are an independent producer of residential or commercial solar energy, do not hesitate to contact us to arrange an on-site intervention with a certified EcoSolarFriendly installer.