Buyer guide
Solar & energy
Meteorological stations for PV performance monitoring and resource assessment.
standards
What are the IEC 61724-1 monitoring classes for solar sites?
IEC 61724-1:2021 defines two PV monitoring accuracy classes: Class A (high accuracy, for utility-scale and large commercial plants) and Class B (medium accuracy, for rooftop and smaller systems). The former 2017 Class C is now Class B. Class A requires pyranometer dew and frost mitigation unless dew or frost is rare.
decision
What weather station does a solar site need?
Most PV sites need irradiance measured in the plane of the array, plus module and air temperature and wind. Large plants usually add soiling measurement and higher-grade sensors to meet a performance contract; smaller systems often use a simpler package. Confirm the monitoring class your contract requires first.
question
What should I ask a solar met station provider before buying?
Ask which monitoring class the package meets, which sensors and calibration it includes, how it is maintained, and how data reaches your systems. Get answers in writing and compare the same items across providers.