October 16, 2024 | by Julia Ravelson | Engineering + Technology, Solar Resource Measurement

Selecting the right pyranometer is essential when planning a solar energy project, as it directly influences the accuracy of both pre- and post-construction data collection. These instruments measure solar irradiance, and the right choice can significantly enhance the performance, efficiency, and overall bankability of your solar project.

In our previous blog, we discussed how data-driven decision-making maximizes energy output and project profitability. In this installment, we explore the key factors to consider when selecting the ideal pyranometer for your solar resource measurement needs. These include:

  • Accuracy and Precision
  • Project Standards and Requirements
  • Durability, Maintenance, and Innovation

THE VALUE OF ACCURACY

In utility-scale solar projects, pyranometer accuracy is a top priority, as precise data is critical for determining project feasibility and profitability. High-precision pyranometers are particularly effective for long-term monitoring and data collection due to their minimal error margins, consistent temperature response, and rapid response time. Throughout both the pre- and post-construction phases of solar project development, these key performance indicators ensure sensors deliver continuous, accurate, and reliable data with minimal maintenance. In contrast, less accurate pyranometers may introduce greater data variability and be more affected by temperature and position changes, which can compromise data quality. Pyranometer accuracy is categorized into three main tiers, as defined by ISO 9060:2018 and described below.

ALIGNING WITH GLOBAL STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

Compliance with international standards is another critical factor when choosing a pyranometer. The ISO 9060:2018 and IEC 61724-1:2021 standards guide the industry in solar irradiance measurement and PV system performance monitoring.

  • ISO 9060:2018: This international standard categorizes pyranometers into three classes: Class A (Secondary Standard), Class B (First Class), and Class C (Second Class). Class A pyranometers offer the highest precision, meeting stringent criteria for accuracy, stability, and response time. Your project may require any of these classes, but as described above, ISO 9060 Class A pyranometers help to ensure your data is precise and reliable.
  • IEC 61724-1:2021: IEC 61724-1:2021 is another globally relevant standard that sets the guidelines for monitoring PV system performance, defining the required sensor types and performance criteria to ensure accurate and reliable data collection. Solar projects using Class A pyranometers should adhere to these standards to meet industry best practices and ensure data integrity.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Solar sites are often located in harsh environments, where pyranometers must endure extreme weather, dirt, and dust. Durability is key. Features like heating, ventilation, and internal diagnostics can enhance a pyranometers resilience and performance. Selecting a pyranometer built to withstand these conditions will minimize downtime, ensure accurate data, and reduce maintenance costs.

MEET THE NRG R2 PYRANOMETER: THE IDEAL SOLUTION

The NRG R2 Pyranometer excels in all  categories outlined above. It delivers superior measurement accuracy, with a temperature response of +/- 0.5% and a response time of less than 5 seconds. Designed to meet both the ISO 9060 and IEC 61724 Class A pyranometer standards, the R2 guarantees high-quality, bankable data.

Additionally, R2’s robust design, paired with internal diagnostic sensors, allows for proactive maintenance by detecting environmental impacts early, so you can maintain data integrity and project confidence.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Selecting the right pyranometer is essential to the success of your solar resource measurement campaign. By considering factors such as accuracy, compliance with industry standards, and environmental durability, you can ensure optimal performance and data reliability. The NRG R2 Pyranometer checks all the boxes, making it the ideal solution for efficient, successful solar resource assessment and monitoring.

This blog is part of a series highlighting the critical role of meteorological data in building and operating successful utility-scale solar projects. Be sure to read the previous installments HERE and stay tuned for the next post in November.

Julia Ravelson Employee Grid Pic
Julia Ravelson

As a product manager, Julia's focus is on solar resource assessment and monitoring technologies. Julia is responsible for driving the development and optimization of innovative solutions that empower solar energy projects, with a focus on integrating accurate and reliable meteorologic sensors and efficient hardware designs. She writes about industry trends and how NRG's products address customer challenges and drive their success. 

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