In this document
We will introduce you to the Solargis Forecast service, what it is, its typical use cases, and available subscription tiers.
Solargis Forecast service
As the share of photovoltaic (PV) power in the energy mix continues to grow, integrating PV generation into distribution and transmission grids presents new challenges. PV power output is inherently variable, fluctuating with weather conditions, time of day, and seasonal changes. Accurate PV power forecasting is therefore critical for:
Maintaining the balance between energy supply and demand in electrical grids (for grid operators)
Reducing financial penalties and economic losses (for PV asset operators)
Defining the most efficient trading strategies (for energy traders)
Effectively sizing battery energy storage systems (for PV asset operators)
Scheduling maintenance activities (for PV asset operators)
Solargis Forecast delivers reliable predictions of solar power generation for your PV plant over the next minutes, hours, and days—up to a two-week horizon. In addition to PVOUT (PV power output), the service provides access to over 30 solar, meteorological, and environmental parameters, enabling a comprehensive understanding of site conditions and supporting effective operational planning. For detailed technical specifications, please refer to the product documentation.
Note: Learn more about the origin of the data for Solargis Forecast here.
Typical use cases
Maintaining balance between energy supply and demand
The primary responsibility of Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and Transmission System Operators (TSOs) is to ensure grid stability and reliability by balancing energy production (supply) with consumption (demand). Maintaining this balance keeps grid voltage and frequency within required limits, which is essential for the safe operation of electrical appliances and industrial equipment. Accurate PV power forecasts enable DSOs and TSOs to anticipate how much PV power will be generated, reducing the risk of grid imbalances, blackouts, and reliance on costly backup power sources.
Reducing financial penalties
PV asset operators may face financial penalties or energy curtailment from DSOs and TSOs if the actual PV power delivered differs from contracted amounts. Underproduction typically results in penalties, while overproduction can lead to curtailment and lost revenue. Accurate PV power forecasts help operators align generation with contractual obligations, minimizing both shortages and surpluses and supporting economic performance.
Defining trading strategies
Energy traders require precise forecasts to develop profitable trading strategies in energy markets. By knowing anticipated PV power output, traders can make informed decisions on when to buy or sell energy, optimizing transactions based on expected supply and demand. This helps ensure energy is traded at the most advantageous prices.
Sizing battery energy storage systems (BESS)
PV asset operators are often required to limit PV power ramp rates—rapid increases or decreases in output that can challenge grid stability. Such ramps often occur when cloud cover changes rapidly. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) can smooth these fluctuations by quickly absorbing or releasing energy. Accurate PV power forecasts allow operators to size BESS appropriately, avoiding under- or over-sizing and ensuring cost-effective PV plant operation.
Scheduling maintenance of PV assets
Scheduling maintenance is optimized not only by forecasting PV power output but also by predicting meteorological conditions, such as precipitation. Maintenance is best performed during periods of low expected solar generation (e.g., cloudy or rainy days) to minimize lost revenue. Accurate weather forecasts help operators plan maintenance activities for maximum economic efficiency.
Available service tiers and delivery methods
Solargis Forecast is available in two main service tiers, plus an additional option for advanced or portfolio-wide forecasting needs:
Basic: Provides a selection of forecast parameters in hourly resolution, suitable for applications with low criticality.
Professional: Offers all forecast parameters with up to 5-minute resolution, suitable for any use case.
Customizable Solargis Forecast Enterprise: For organizations requiring high data volumes, advanced analytics, and custom solutions.
For portfolios that manage several PV power plants together, Solargis offers an aggregated forecast for the whole portfolio.
This document outlines the differences between the Solargis Forecast service subscription plans.
Additionally, Solargis maintains a global archive of historical forecasts, available at various forecast horizons and issue times.
All Solargis Forecast services can be delivered via two methods:
SFTP: Specify delivery parameters for each forecasted location, and Solargis will provide data via a secure file exchange server.
API: Access forecast data autonomously for all monitored locations using an API token. Technical documentation for the Solargis Forecast API endpoint is available here.