Accelerating Net Zero: A call for a global monitoring system for solar energy

The global capacity of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy surpassed the terawatt level in early 2022, signifying a significant milestone in the transition towards a renewable energy-based society. However, to achieve this goal, effective monitoring of PV energy generation is essential. In a new commentary in Joule, Utrecht University solar energy expert Prof. Wilfried van Sark proposes and outlines the establishment of a comprehensive monitoring system that would ensure a reliable and sustainable electricity supply, helping unleash the full potential of PV solar in reaching Net Zero emissions by 2050.

Real-time data on energy generation plays a crucial role in ensuring a reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy system. Today, power output of centralized fossil-based and nuclear power plants is well monitored in the European Union, with open data available from the European Commission’s JRC Open Power Plants Database. This does not exist for renewable energy sources.

We need comprehensive real-time monitoring of power generation across all scales, from small-scale PV modules to gigawatt-sized PV and wind parks

Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy sources depend on the weather. This means accurate weather forecasts and optimized PV, wind, and storage capacities, as well as the interconnection between countries, are necessary to ensure uninterrupted availability of energy at an affordable price. “We need comprehensive real-time monitoring of power generation across all scales, from small-scale PV modules to gigawatt-sized PV and wind parks,” explains Van Sark, Professor of Integration of Photovoltaic Solar Energy at the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development.

The situation in the Netherlands

Van Sark uses the situation in the Netherlands to highlight a path for action. Here, it is mandatory to register any PV system with the local distribution system operators (DSO). This information then is collected by Statistics Netherlands (CBS), which runs a centralized national database of the total installed PV capacity. The database contains about 2 million small systems in residential areas as well as many larger systems in predominantly rural areas. However, real-time data is not available. “Without access to real-time power generation data, the potential of PV energy can only be estimated,” explains Van Sark. Like in other countries across the globe, about half of PV capacity comprises small-scale systems, and with no data available, security of supply may be at stake.

However, power generation data is available locally, though, for example on consumer energy apps through inverter manufacturer uploads to data clouds. “The question is how this scattered data can be used—without violating GDPR—to determine the contribution of PV to the electricity demand,” says Van Sark.

Towards a centralised monitoring system

To overcome this, argues Van Sark, a centralized, open access database system should be established to monitor PV generation. He proposes the following actions:

1. Organize PV installation database: Establish a database of PV installations hosted by national statistics institutes (NSIs) to ensure compliance with GDPR regulations. The database should include information on location, capacity, installation date, orientation, and tilt.
2. Perform maximum yield calculations: Based on the basic PV installation information, maximum yield can be calculated. Other data like forecasted weather conditions can be included for more accurate predictions.
3. Determine real-time yield: Establish centralized national databases hosted by NSIs that collect operational data every five to 15 minutes. Access to real-time data would enable distribution system operators, transmission system operators, and organisations in the energy market to ensure a reliable and sustainable electricity supply.

By establishing a robust PV power monitoring system, countries can enhance their ability to manage PV energy and optimize its contribution to the electricity grid. Real-time data will enable more efficient energy market trading, congestion management, and secure supply planning, leading to a reliable and sustainable energy future. “This is vital for maximizing the potential of solar energy, accelerating the energy transition, and ultimately achieving a 100% renewables-based society,” concludes Van Sark