The load profile as a basis for calculating PV systems

A Load profile is a graphical representation or data recording that shows the energy consumption of a consumer, a system or a company over a certain period of time. The load profile is created through the use of modern energy management systems (EMS), such as the CUBE EfficiencyUnitor smart meters. These systems monitor the Energy consumption in real time and record the data. This enables companies to analyze historical consumption data in order to identify trends and Peak load times to identify. Load profiles are rarely static. They vary depending on the time of year, day of the week or operational changes, which is why companies should monitor them regularly.

Control costs, recognize consumption patterns and create forecasts

Load profiles illustrate how much energy is consumed at different times and thus provide an insight into the Consumption pattern. A load profile can be applied to different time units. Depending on which level of granularity is required, they can even be created by the minute thanks to the RLM meters. The load profile is normally displayed as a diagram with the time axis on the X-axis and the energy consumption on the Y-axis. It is also possible, for example, to operational load peaks that lead to high grid charges. These currently amount to around 30 % of the total electricity costs and can often be reduced by intelligent peak load management or an EMS. significantly reduce. If the load profiles of a year are considered, it is also possible to Consumption forecasts in relation to the yield of a PV system and the necessary residual electricity consumption.

The load profile for PV calculation

With the Planning a PV system the load profile of a company plays a decisive role. It forms the basis for the correct dimensioning of the system and enables optimum use of the solar energy generated. The peak load times and consumption patterns clearly show how much energy can be different times of day is required. It can then be determined whether a pure South-facing or east-west facing of solar modules makes sense, whether the use of electricity storage systems is worthwhile or how large the entire system can be planned. This information is essential in order to design a PV system accordingly. Accordingly, maximum self-consumption is made possible, the grid feed-in is optimized and the residual electricity purchase is calculated.

Why must the load profile always be taken into account when planning PV systems?

Optimum dimensioningBy precisely analyzing the load profile, the PV system can be optimally dimensioned to cover the majority of the energy demand. The following still applies: The more solar power a company can use directly from its own PV system, the more economical it is. However, this also prevents the system from being oversized and thus reduces the investment costs.

Maximize self-consumptionCompanies can increase their own consumption of the solar energy generated by aligning the PV system so that it produces during peak load times. This reduces the need for expensive grid electricity and leads to direct cost savings.

Grid feed-in and remunerationSurplus energy that is not consumed directly can be fed into the electricity grid. A precise understanding of the load profile helps to predict the amount of energy fed into the grid. This is particularly relevant for calculating remuneration or feed-in tariffs.

Battery storageIf company Battery storage to store surplus energy and use it during periods of low production, the load profile is crucial. It helps to determine the correct capacity of the storage system.

Maintenance and operation: The company's load profile can be used to identify the best maintenance times for the machines and systems as well as the PV system and to better plan maintenance tasks.

Valid load profiles are a basic requirement for efficient PV planning

The load profile is a decisive factor in the planning and use of PV systems for companies. A precise understanding of energy consumption helps to dimension the system correctly, maximize self-consumption, optimize grid feed-in and achieve cost savings. Companies should use modern energy management systems to record accurate and up-to-date consumption data in order to exploit the full potential of their PV system.