Solar 101

5.1 Production: How Solar Energy Is Estimated and Measured?

Before your system is installed, Melink Solar uses industry-standard modeling tools – like HelioscopePVsyst, or Aurora Solar – to project annual solar production (in kilowatt-hours, or kWh).

These tools use:

  • Local weather station data for long-term solar irradiance averages
  • Tilt angle and orientation based on your site design
  • Soiling and shading assumptions to model losses from dust, pollen, trees, or nearby obstructions

A well-modeled system should deliver consistent performance with only slight seasonal variations – higher in summer, lower in winter.

Important Production Factors:

  • Soiling: Dirt or debris on panels can reduce output. Melink Solar factors this into estimates.
  • Shading: Trees, HVAC units, or new construction nearby can impact long-term production.
  • System Losses: Inverter efficiency, wiring, and temperature all reduce raw output slightly (typically <20%).

Be cautious of solar proposals that overpromise production. Melink Solar models conservatively using real-world assumptions to protect your ROI.