Every operator wants to best possible PV yield and generate as much electricity as possible with their system. This applies to both private operators and operators of large commercial photovoltaic systems. The exact calculation is extremely complex and a PV yield forecast is a combination of many different factors. Especially when planning PV systems for companies, even the smallest errors can result in very high yield losses. Depending on the size of the system, these can quickly add up to a five-figure sum. This is why an individual calculation that takes all factors into account is extremely important for every large-scale PV system. It is not enough to simply use an online yield calculator, align the modules according to the yield table or take a look at the relevant solar cadastre.
Factors that influence the PV yield
The most important factor is clearly solar radiation. Irrespective of the seasons, the position of the sun and weather conditions, which can be calculated down to the square meter using the average values, the following factors play a key role in an accurate PV yield forecast Inclination and alignment of the solar modules plays a decisive role. The optimum orientation of the solar panels is south-facing and with an angle of inclination that corresponds to the exact latitude of the location. However, this orientation does not necessarily have to be the most economical, as the maximum PV yield is only concentrated in the midday hours. A targeted east-west orientation, for example, can achieve a more even PV yield throughout the day. The best inclination and orientation of the entire system must therefore be determined in relation to a company's load profile.
In addition to the exact geographical location and orientation, other factors also play a role. Location factors plays an important role for the PV yield. High temperatures, possible shading from trees, adjacent buildings, chimneys or masts as well as soiling have a considerable influence on this. For example, high levels of dust in the surrounding area, which make it necessary to constantly clean the solar modules, can mean that operating a photovoltaic system is no longer economically viable.
Of course, optimizing the PV yield requires special attention to the selection of the Components of a PV system. Above all, monocrystalline modules with the highest current efficiency and a long service life should be installed. To ensure economic efficiency, the Dimensioning of the inverters must be calculated precisely. It should be noted that investment costs are usually high in relation to the total yield of the system, despite the best electricity yield under ideal conditions, which rarely prevail. The module cabling and the cable lengths and thicknesses, which influence the PV yield, should also not be underestimated.
Ultimately, a regular Maintenance and monitoring of the system so that it works efficiently and the yield is maximized.
Individual calculation of profitability
Due to the various factors that influence the PV yield and, above all, the economic efficiency of a PV system, large-scale commercial photovoltaic systems must always be calculated individually. A valid yield forecast can only be made once all components and circumstances have been planned in an optimized manner in advance. When calculating profitability, CUBE CONCEPTS not only considers the pure electricity yield, but also the legal requirements including subsidy measures, electricity prices, operating times and much more.
Would you like to get an initial overview and explore the solar potential of your company? The CUBE Discover® solar calculator provides you with rough figures based on our many years of experience.