Configure the physical PV model and interpret performance and loss categories.
Use Performance models in site operations to compare measured PV output with a physical reference model. This is separate from the dashboard's production-versus-expectation comparison.
The model uses PVWatts DC and inverter relationships. When module temperature is not measured, the Faiman model estimates it from irradiance, air temperature and wind. Missing required inputs leave that interval without a model result.
Configured soiling, shading, mismatch, wiring and other losses are model assumptions. Temperature, conversion and clipping contributions are calculated from the configured model.
Measured and expected energy are compared over matching usable intervals. Verified maintenance, grid or unavailability events can explain an operational loss. Curtailment attribution requires a curtailment indication and a relevant power limit. Remaining shortfalls stay unexplained; the model does not automatically diagnose physical faults.
Review comparable hours, coverage, bias and normalized error alongside energy totals.
The typical-year calculation uses PVGIS TMY weather, location, orientation and the solar profile. It returns monthly and annual production, specific yield and a lifetime series using the entered annual degradation assumption. It is distinct from measured historical production.
See PV indicators and Targets and expected production.