Need

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are complex assemblies of components, comprising active components (PV
modules, switches, power optimisers, inverters, transformers), passive components (wiring, fuses), structures 
(racks, trackers), and a suite of monitoring equipment. They are organised in a hierarchical structure, for 
example a system may have 72 PV cells per PV module, 24 modules per 1 kV string, 8 strings per inverter 
and many inverters connected to a grid or transformer. System sizes in Europe are widely distributed from 
residential (e.g. ~10 modules) to utility scale (typically 2,000 – 200,000 modules). Understanding system 
performance is not just a function of individual components, but also how those components interact with each 
other and the behaviour of the full system.
Previous projects, EMRP ENG55 Photoclass, EMPIR 16ENG02 PV-Enerate and EMPIR 19ENG01 Metro-PV, 
developed world-leading measurement and calibration capability, training material and new standards. These 
focussed on metrology at the PV cell and module level for existing and new technologies. Now the current 
gaps in capability and best practice affecting the industry are at the system level. The needs of stakeholders 
and the Green Deal require this project to support the optimisation of energy management and efficiency 
at the system level.