- As bifacial PV technology becomes more used, understanding ground-reflected irradiance is important for optimizing the performance. This is where SEVEN PV Albedometer is used. It delivers precise, real-time measurements of albedo and solar irradiance, helping solar operators to maximize the output and performance of bifacial systems.
The latest model, 3S-ALBEDO-2T, enhances capability further by enabling the connection of two PV module temperature sensors, making it a complete monitoring tool for next-generation bifacial and high-precision PV applications.
What Is a PV Albedometer?
A PV albedometer measures the fraction of solar irradiance reflected by the ground surface beneath a PV system. This is particularly important in bifacial PV plants, where energy production depends not only on direct sunlight but also on the reflected light that strikes the rear side of the modules.
The SEVEN Albedometer features two reference cells, one upward-facing and one downward-facing, allowing it to calculate real-time albedo using the ratio of these measurements. With the latest 3S-ALBEDO-2T, it also supports dual module temperature sensing, enabling full environmental insight from a single compact device.
Key Features of SEVEN PV Albedometer
- Dual Irradiance Sensors: Measures Plane of Array or Horizontal (upward) Irradiance and reflected (downward) Irradiance to calculate albedo in real time.
- Class A Accuracy: According to the IEC 61724-1:2021 standard, both reference cells used in the PV albedometer are classified as Class A, which qualifies the assembled albedometer as a Class A device as well.
- Albedo Calculation Onboard: Built-in processor provides ready-to-use albedo percentage via Modbus.
- Model 3S-ALBEDO-2T:
– Connects two PV module temperature sensors for parallel rear/front module temperature monitoring
– Ideal for bifacial performance ratio analysis - Modbus RTU / RS485 Output: Seamless integration with SCADA, dataloggers, and inverter systems.
- Factory-Calibrated Sensors: Each unit is calibrated for high measurement accuracy.
- Compact & Rugged Design: IP65-rated housing suitable for harsh outdoor PV environments.
How Does the PV Albedometer Work?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQJezWG9Z6A
- Plane of Array (POA) Irradiance Sensor (upward-facing) measures sunlight received from the sky.
- Reflected Irradiance Sensor (downward-facing) measures ground-reflected radiation.
- Optional temperature sensors record front and rear module temperatures.
- All values are output in real time via Modbus RTU for integration into monitoring systems.
Why Use the SEVEN Albedometer?
Bifacial PV systems can deliver 5–20% higher yields, but only if irradiance and thermal conditions are properly monitored and modeled. The SEVEN Albedometer helps by:
- Calculating site-specific albedo in real time.
- Improving bifacial gain accuracy in simulations.
- Monitoring module temperatures to assess operating conditions and thermal stress.
- Triggering cleaning or adjustment actions based on environmental input.
- Providing reliable data for SCADA.
Integration & Compatibility of SEVEN PV Albedometer
SEVEN PV Albedometers are designed to plug seamlessly into:
- SCADA Systems
- PV performance analysis tools
- Bifacial-specific energy modeling software
The Modbus RTU output ensures easy setup with most dataloggers and inverter monitoring systems.
Typical Applications of PV Albedometers
- Utility-scale bifacial PV plants
- Pilot sites comparing monofacial vs bifacial output
- Ground surface impact studies (e.g., gravel, grass, snow)…
Best Practices for Using SEVEN PV Albedometer
To get the accurate data from SEVEN PV Albedometer, you need to follow some tips:
- Install on the same plane as modules, between rows or near representative surfaces.
- Keep the surface clean on both sensors to ensure measurement integrity.
- Verify sensor orientation: ensure both upward and downward sensors are level.
- Regularly check temperature sensor connections (for 3S-ALBEDO-2T).
SEVEN PV Albedometer: Complete Environmental Insight for Bifacial Success
With the addition of module temperature monitoring in the 3S-ALBEDO-2T, SEVEN’s Albedometer goes beyond albedo, providing a full environmental performance picture in one rugged, intelligent device.
Whether you are optimizing a bifacial farm, modeling system behavior, or driving down LCOE, the SEVEN Albedometer gives you the real-world data needed to make smart decisions.
Interested in upgrading your PV monitoring system?
Contact SEVEN for product demos, installation guidan