PV system performance assessment

The world is increasingly relying on solar energy to meet its growing sustainable power demand. At Hukx, we are proud to be the market leader in solar radiation sensors, which are ideal for assessing PV system performance. Our instruments are trusted by professionals worldwide and comply with IEC standards for PV system monitoring. With our technology, PV system owners monitor asset performance and unlock a range of operational, technical, and financial benefits.

Our solar radiation sensors

At Hukx, we supply a range of different sensors for solar radiation. These sensors measure the radiative energy flux onto or through a surface in [W/m²]. We have different sensors suitable for PV monitoring. Each sensor isolates or combines different components of the sun’s radiation:

• Pyranometers: Our best-sellers, designed to measure hemispherical solar radiation. This quantity is commonly measured in horizontal position (global horizontal irradiance/GHI). The sensor can also be mounted in the plane of array (POA) next to PV panels, to measure POA irradiance.
• Pyrheliometers: These sensors are designed to measure direct (normal incidence) solar radiation (DNI). They are usually mounted on a sun-tracker to keep the instrument aimed at the sun.
• Diffusometer: This instrument is designed to measure diffuse radiation (DHI). When combined with a pyranometer to measure GHI, you can calculate the DNI.

Our pyranometers and pyrheliometers use thermopile sensors to convert thermal energy into an electrical signal. Our diffusometer uses photodiode sensors to convert light into an electrical signal. PV system owners worldwide rely on our technology to assess the performance of their assets.

Monitoring PV systems

Monitoring only the energy output of a PV system just gives one side of the story. Solar radiation measurements provide valuable insight into the system’s long- and short-term performance in different areas:

• Optimizing energy yield: Knowledge of the solar conditions at the PV system’s location can help identify issues due to shading, soiling or component degradation.
• Failure detection: By monitoring the solar radiation, users can set a performance baseline for their PV systems and detect failures when this baseline is not met.
• Operational efficiency: Comparing the solar radiation conditions with PV performance is very important for quality assurance purposes. Radiation measurements also support the planning of cleaning and service schedules.
• Financial decision-making: Using solar radiation measurements, estimates can be made of the asset’s energy output and resulting revenue. These measurements can also be used to monitor the asset’s depreciation across its life cycle.
• Forecasting: Continuous assessment of the Performance Ratio, PR, of a solar power plant makes it possible to better forecast produced power. 

Using solar radiation measurements to assess the performance of a PV system is considered as best practice. Hukx offers different types of sensors to provide a comprehensive view.

Sensor selection

Hukx offers a broad range of sensors, including pyranometers, pyrheliometers, and diffusometers. The ideal sensor for your application depends on several factors:

• Accuracy: Our sensors adhere to different ISO 9060 standards. Pyranometers range from Class A to Class C, and pyrheliometers are available with Class A and Class B ratings.
• Expected measuring conditions: Special environmental factors such as dew, frost, snow, and dust should be taken into account when selecting a sensor. At Hukx, we offer sensors with integrated heating to ensure accurate measurement in all conditions.
• Desired output: We offer sensors with both digital and analog output.

Advantages

Choosing Hukx sensors means investing in bankable solar radiation data. We offer many other advantages including:

• Proven expertise: At Hukx, we have been developing solar radiation sensors since 1993. Over the years, we have expanded our product lines and have established ourselves as both the technology and market leader.
• Worldwide support: Hukx has specialists available in every major economy.
• Calibration support: We have a worldwide calibration network, reducing the need for cross-border transport.
• Compliance with standards: Our solar radiation sensors comply with industry standards such as IEC 61724 and ISO 9060.
• Lowest total cost of ownership: Our global network helps you calibrate and repair instruments at the industry's best cost level.