On-site performance verification to reduce yield prediction uncertainties

In this paper, we describe a number of quality assurance procedures for PV performance evaluations using data that has been acquired with commercially operating PV power plants. Summarized under the term “performance verification”, these procedures aim to make reliable use of data gathered by PV operators, despite inaccuracies in such data. To this end, short-term measurements with independent equipment and/or data sources are factored in. This ensures both meteorological and PV performance data gathered by operators have sufficient quality. Given a sufficient quality, site-adaptation of satellite based solar irradiation time series and optimizations of PV models may allow for significantly reduced uncertainties of yield predictions. This we anticipate to be of great interest to a broad range of PV stakeholders. The prerequisite for this, however, are appropriate quality of on-site sensors and strict maintenance of the PV performance monitoring systems in place.