Solar energy research

As global energy demand grows, the need for efficient and sustainable energy sources becomes increasingly urgent. Solar energy is a major contributor to the green energy market. Advancing solar energy research is vital to making the PV system market future-proof. At Hukx, we support solar energy research with a broad range of solar radiation sensors. We offer spectrally flat instruments with accuracies ranging from ISO Class A, Class B, and Class C.

Our solar radiation sensors

Hukx is a supplier of 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, DNI can be calculated.

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 develop the next generation of PV systems.

Developing the best PV systems

In the development and research phases of PV systems and technologies, solar radiation measurements are essential. These measurements provide the baseline for energy efficiency calculations, material optimization, and PV performance validation:

• Energy efficiency: This is one of the most important metrics to consider when choosing a certain PV technology. Using our sensors, researchers can perform accurate reference solar radiation measurements. By multiplying the irradiance measurements by the incident surface area of the PV system, an estimate of the generated energy can be obtained. By comparing this value to the actual power output, the energy efficiency rating of a system can be determined.
• Material optimization: Solar radiation measurements enable comparisons between PV materials such as thin-films or silicon. Such measurements can also be used to assess the performance of novel PV technologies and materials. Long-term irradiance monitoring can also help with analyzing a material’s degree of degradation.
• PV performance modelling: The accurate measurements of our devices can be used as inputs and boundary conditions for PV simulation models. Accurate simulations are the baseline for developing efficient PV systems. 

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.
• Traceability: All sensor calibrations are formally traceable to international standards.