Solar simulators: application to developing cities
Developing cities seeking to assess their policy and financing options for rooftop photovoltaic (PV) power generation can benefit from the increasing sophistication of rooftop PV simulators. This report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) examines the evolution of solar PV simulators, from single-rooftop assessments at the household level to large-scale, aggregate-level analyses undertaken by municipal authorities and other large entities. Larger-scale simulator applications, typically preceding the establishment PV incentive programmes, help to determine the optimal power mix and ensure the long-term viability.
