A useful solar estimate makes its assumptions visible.
How to distinguish system sizing, annual generation, self-consumption and a simple payback scenario.
Discuss your project ↗Separate capacity from energy
Installed PV capacity is usually expressed in kWp, while electricity generation is measured in kWh. A preliminary annual generation scenario multiplies system capacity by an assumed specific yield. It is not a substitute for a site-specific assessment of irradiation, orientation, shading and losses.
Annual balance is not self-consumption
Annual solar generation equal to annual demand does not mean that the facility uses all generated energy directly. Their timing matters. Consumption when the sun is not producing and production when the facility is closed need separate treatment.
Understand the limits of simple payback
A simple payback calculation divides investment cost by an assumed annual net saving. That indicator alone does not account for the timing of cash flows, financing, tax, changing tariffs, degradation or equipment replacement. Input assumptions must be reviewed before an investment decision.
Use a preliminary tool for the next conversation
Solar Pro helps organise initial sizing and financial assumptions. Bring the result, consumption data, site information and your commercial inputs to an engineering discussion. A transparent preliminary scenario is more useful than a guaranteed-return claim unsupported by project data.
Let’s define the next step.
Share your site, consumption and project schedule.