Accurate measurement of irradiance data in SPPs (Solar Energy Systems) is critical in terms of production monitoring, performance analysis and fault detection. Thermopile Pyranometer, one of the most preferred sensors for this purpose, precisely measures the incoming solar radiation. As SEVEN Sensor Solution, you can visit our 3S-TP-MB-A Thermopile Pyranometer.
Why may more than one pyranometer be needed in SPPs?
A single pyranometer may be sufficient to obtain accurate overall irradiance data. However, more than one pyranometer is required in the following cases:
1. If GHI and POA will be measured at the same time
- (1) For POA (Plane of Array Irradiance), an additional pyranometer placed parallel to the tilt and orientation of the solar panel is used.
- (2) GHI (Global Horizontal Irradiance) requires a pyranometer placed in the horizontal plane.
- For sites with different installation angles, one Pyranometer should be used for each different angle orientation.
2. Use of Bifacial Panels
Figure 3 – Pyranometer on Bifacial Panel
- In this case, the reflected irradiance on the back surface of the panels should be measured.
- A pyranometer is placed behind the panel in the opposite direction to obtain this data.
3. Large Area Solar Power Plants
- In large sites with different panel orientations or regional climate differences, multiple pyranometers are needed to capture local variations.
- Number of Sensors Required According to IEC61724:2021;
| System Size (AC)
MW |
Quantity |
| < 40 | 2 |
| ≥ 40 … < 100 | 3 |
| ≥ 100 … < 300 | 4 |
| ≥ 300 … < 500 | 5 |
| ≥ 500 … < 700 | 6 |
| ≥ 700 | 7, plus 1 for Each additional 200 MW |
4. For Analyzing Performance Losses
In order to analyze regional effects such as pollution, shading or frost, piranometers placed at different locations on the same site allow a clearer identification of the source of the problem.
3S-TP-MB-A Thermopile Pyranometer
3S-TP-MB-A is a high precision Class A Thermopile Pyranometer designed for use in professional systems with ISO 9060:2018 Class A and IEC 61724-1:2021 Class A compliance. It is an ideal sensor for irradiance measurement at multiple points.
Key features of the 3S-TP-MB-A Thermopile Pyranometer;
- Equipped with the latest technology, single dome glass, white quartz diffuser and thermopile. You can take a look our article Next-Generation Thermopile Pyranometer, where the pyranometer features are explained in detail.
- Spectral range is between 280 – 3000 nm.
- Response time is 0.5 seconds.
- It has digital RS485 Modbus RTU data output.
- Resolution is 0.1 W/m².
- Operating temperature is -40°C to +85°C.
- Measurement range is 0 – 4000 W/m².
- Calibration period is 5 years.
- Low Zero Deviation even without ventilation.
- Faster Thermal Stabilization.
Advantages of using multiple Pyranometers at the same site;
- Fully meet the need
- Improved data accuracy
- Comprehensive analysis with multiple measuring points
- Correctly identify the causes of performance loss
The use of multiple Pyranometers is important not only for large systems, but for solar projects of any scale that require accurate and detailed performance analysis. The 3S-TP-MB-A Thermopile Pyranometer is a professional solution with high accuracy, wide compatibility and robust construction to meet this need.
For detailed product information and technical documents, please visit SEVEN Sensor page.