Understanding system efficiency
System efficiency is a percentage used in GreenSketch to account for system losses when estimating solar energy production. It represents how much of the calculated energy output remains after these losses are applied.
For example, 85% system efficiency accounts for 15% system losses, reducing a calculated output of 10,000 kWh to 8,500 kWh.
What affects system efficiency?
Several factors can reduce the energy a solar system produces:
Soiling: Dust, dirt, and other debris on panels can reduce the amount of sunlight reaching the solar cells.
Cable losses: Some energy is lost as electricity travels through the system’s wiring.
Inverter losses: Some energy is lost when the inverter converts direct current (DC) from the panels into alternating current (AC).
Weather and local operating conditions can also affect system performance.
How does it affect energy estimates?
With all other inputs unchanged, a higher system efficiency produces a higher energy estimate, while a lower value allows for greater losses and produces a lower estimate.
When should I adjust it?
Use the default value as a starting point. Adjust it when you have information that supports a different overall loss estimate, such as equipment specifications, cable loss calculations, site conditions, or performance data from comparable installations.
For example, a site with heavy dust accumulation may need a lower efficiency value to allow for greater soiling losses.
Where can it be adjusted?
Default setting: Admins can set the default system efficiency in Settings. This value is used for new projects.
Project setting: Project creators can adjust System Efficiency in Design for an individual project. Changes apply only to that project and leave the default setting unchanged.
