Solar energy Assessment and Planning tool (SEAP)
SEAP will provide both spatial and operational assessment of solar energy systems (SES) based on the prediction of climate variables on different time scales.
Value Engage end-users
SEAP was developed following a co-generation process, where service providers and end-users are closely involved in the design of the tool. This process was carried out through face meetings during a 12-month period when service providers and pilot end-users were discussing the users-needs and the specifications and requirements to be implemented in the climate service. The end-user involvement has provided a better balance between the needs of energy system operators and the use of solar production forecast information to improve the production of photovoltaic installations.
Development
SEAP is a web presentation tool for automating both spatial and operational assessment of utility-scale PV plants. The SEAP service is a technological tool which provides a forecast of solar radiation and PV energy production, displaying it in a user-friendly web interface, together with other information useful for PV plants managers. The service provides: 1) Predictions from weather forecasts to seasonal predictions; 2) Down-scaling forecasting for specific decisions; 3) Assessing and combining uncertainty information in individual data sources. 4) Understanding of the quality of datasets for energy production regarding climate estimation. SEAP follow an access provision business model, covering new geographical areas and providing new methods to communicate with clients. It uses cost-efficient contracting forms with multi-product revenue generation opportunities.
Value
SEAP provides the best alternatives for those plants the user can act on, either managing the priority of consumption in autonomous installations or determining the most appropriate tracking for each day. The service supports managers to: (1) Operational assessment of solar energy systems on different time scales, daily, monthly, or seasonal, (2) Anticipating or ordering the general working model of the electricity network, 3) Information about the best solar tracking strategy for collectors, (4) Robust decision-making by planning offices. The value of SEAP is particularly remarkable in the case of dynamic plants, where the user can modify the tracking policies to improve production. Having prior knowledge of solar radiation through SEAP service allows the policy of solar trackers to be programmed in advance to optimize the uptake.
Market
SEAP is a value-driven climate service. Users are willing to pay for the implementation and maintenance of a climate service offering clear and reliable information of solar energy availability forecast and how it affects the operation tasks.
Developers team (UCO)
R. López, I. Moreno, M. Varo, J. Ramírez, L. M. Fernández, F. Casares
Contact: fa1lolur@uco.es
SERVICE WORKFLOW
