"The specific objectives were to validate the technological, market/commercial and economic viability of our proposed innovative solution. This was led through a technological assessment and an international marketing and business assessment.
As a reminder, REUNIWATT’s studied solution, e-SPACE Monitoring, is a system linking data from an Internet-of-Things-based solar irradiance measurement device with data issuing from geostationary meteorological satellites to deliver a permanent PV performance evaluation service through a SaaS (Software as a Service) platform.
Such a solution is particularly important in the Operations & Maintenance sector, where irradiance data represent one of the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to make sure a photovoltaic installation is working at its full potential. ""An analysis of 197 PV plants revealed that 25% of all PV plants perform 8% (or more) below expectations.""
Irradiance data can be provided either from satellite data, either from a network of ground sensors
The hybridisation of both sources is particularly interesting, as it offers a cross-validation of the data. When REUNIWATT applied to SME Phase 1, we believed that photovoltaic (PV) plant operators had a good knowledge of irradiance estimation tools using satellite data, and that the market was mature and already captured. However, our market study led us to rethink our strategy: satellite solutions are not yet set for every international market (particularly in the Asia-Pacific region). Moreover, on more mature markets, such as Europe, there is a clear need for obtaining independent real-time estimation data, confirmed by Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) who require such a KPI. Thus, as it will be explained in the current report, REUNIWATT decided to primarily focus on satellite imaging and to redefine its strategy following the conclusions of the technological assessment (Task 1) as well as the international marketing and business assessment (Task 2).
As targeted users are not as well-informed concerning real-time satellite irradiance data as previously thought, REUNIWATT will begin by educating (“evangelizing”) its clients step by step. The first stage of this process is to instruct them on how to use satellite data through a 100% satellite tool: SunSat.
Once our clients have a good command of this aspect, we will introduce them to e-SPACE Monitoring: the hybridisation of satellite and ground-based data. We have already developed a first proof of concept (POC) of our in-situ measurement device, but we are still on the client discovery process. However, the deployment of SunSat can be done straight away, as we master all the technical aspects linked to satellite image reception, treatment, analysis and delivery.
Eventually, the importance of cross-validated irradiance data is highlighted by new uses, particularly for irradiance and production forecasting purposes. Indeed, in order to provide the most precise possible forecasts, it is necessary to have a confirmation of ground measures through satellite data. This particular need is growing, but the market is not yet mature."
