PVWatts Calculator
pvwatts.nrel.govEstimates energy production and cost of grid-connected PV systems worldwide
Climate & Energysolarphotovoltaicenergy-calculatorrenewable-energypv-systemsolar-modelingenergy-production
About
PVWatts is a free online calculator developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) that estimates the energy production and cost of energy for grid-connected photovoltaic systems anywhere in the world. It uses 30 years of historical weather data to provide performance predictions for potential solar installations. The tool is designed for homeowners, small building owners, installers, and manufacturers to quickly assess the viability of PV systems.
Problem
Estimating the expected energy production and cost-effectiveness of a potential solar panel installation is complex and requires detailed weather and performance data.
For
homeowners, small building owners, solar installers, and PV manufacturers
How it works
Users input location and system parameters, and PVWatts uses 30 years of historical weather data to calculate estimated annual energy output and cost of energy for the proposed PV system.
Business model
free
Status
launched
Company
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)