• increasing its availability through designing high-performing solar systems (locations, components, layout)

• increasing the predictability of PV electricity generation through forecasting solar irradiance

• increasing the reliability of PV systems through close monitoring and remote controlling of PV installations

The PV System Technology Group runs extensive research programmes on long-term outdoor module performance testing (comparing and analysing numerous commercially available module technologies) and analytical monitoring (comparing and analysing performances of installed PV systems), which is the scientific base for optimising solar PV systems, particularly in tropical climate zones. Proprietary software tools allow accurate yield projections, which are of vital importance to project developers and investors likewise. Also acting as a banker’s engineer, the group offers a variety of services, from independent 3rd-party evaluation of system design & implementation to yield assessment for PV systems, feasibility studies and full due diligences.

Outdoor Module Testing (OMT) setup at SERIS

The Solar Potential and Energy Meteorology Group focuses on the analysis of roof-top space with respect to its suitability for solar PV installations. Using highly accurate aerial view data, the simulations examine individual roofs as well as – on aggregate level – whole city areas. Having recorded the existing solar installations in a certain area, or knowing their maximum possible distribution from the solar potential analysis, it is crucial for power grid operators to know in advance how much electric power will be generated by those solar systems. For that, the group develops irradiance forecasting models several hours ahead, based on various resource data and simulation methodologies with specific focus on tropical climate conditions. This allows for proper grid management, especially when moving closer to so-called 'smart grids'.

Meteorological station with Si sensors in different inclinations at SERIS