FAQs about the Photovoltaic Simulation Tool
FAQs about the PV Calculator
Which temporal resolution is used for the simulations?
The calculation is done for an entire year with a temporal resolution of 15 minutes, whereby fluctuations in consumption during the quarter hour periods are taken into account.
Can we also look at electric vehicles and space heating with the simulations?
Currently, it is not possible to examine electric vehicles and space heating with the free PV calculator; this function is only available to customers who purchase our web tool.
Which data is used as a basis for the simulations?
The solar radiation data and temperature data are based on the PVGIS-SARAH2 database of the Photovoltaic geographical information systems (PVGIS). From data over a period of 10 years, we generate a typical meteorological year for each location in terms of global and diffuse irradiation, temperature profile and heating degree days. This typical year is then used in the simulation to calculate the yield and heating requirements.
Why are there discrepancies of several percentage points between own consumption ratios across different online calculators?
The main reason and also the know-how lies above all in the modeling and generation of real load profiles. The usual standard profiles must be overlaid with fluctuations in order to achieve realistic load profiles. Many PV calculators and simulation tools available in the internet do not take these fluctuations into account correctly, which leads to unrealistically high self-consumption rates and incorrect amortization times. Other factors, such as battery ageing, are also not taken into account by many calculators, which can also lead to a not inconsiderable error.
FAQs about the PV Web plugin
What is the billing model for the simulation tool?
In addition to the basic module, several additional modules are available. The license costs are either paid monthly on an ongoing basis (limited to a maximum number of simulations per month) or on the basis of the simulations actually performed by means of an advance payment (1,000 simulations, valid for a maximum of 1 year).
How long am I bound to the contract for? How can I terminate the contract?
The monthly license can be terminated at any time, but no later than 30 days before the license expires. Prepaid payments for a certain number of simulations do not have to be canceled, but automatically lose their validity one year after activation at the latest.
How is the NFSim web plugin installed on our trader platform?
We provide an integration template (php or WordPress plugin) for your website. Alternatively, we can provide you with an Ajax interface with custom JSON protocol. The implementation itself and the graphic fine-tuning must be done by the customers themselves. Of course, we are available to answer any questions which you might have!
In which languages is the NFSim web plugin available?
The NFSim web plugin template is currently available in German and English. Other languages are possible on request.