Solar Monitoring & Performance Guide (2026) | PES Supply
Solar Monitoring & Performance Guide (2026)
How to monitor your solar system and maximize energy production
Types of Solar Monitoring
| Type | Level | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inverter Built-in | System | Free | Basic production data, alerts |
| Optimizer Monitoring | Module | $50-$100/optimizer | Per-panel data, shade detection |
| Microinverter Monitoring | Module | Included | Per-panel, grid-forming status |
| Third-Party (PVOutput, Sense) | Circuit | $0-$300 | Consumption + production |
| CT Clamp Monitoring | Circuit | $200-$500 | Real-time consumption tracking |
What to Monitor
| Metric | Why It Matters | Ideal Range |
|---|---|---|
| Daily kWh Production | Track energy generated | Matches expected (system kW × sun hrs) |
| Performance Ratio (PR) | Overall system health | 75-85% |
| Specific Yield (kWh/kWp) | Normalize across systems | 1,200-1,800 kWh/kWp/yr |
| String Voltage | Inverter health | Within MPPT range |
| Inverter Temperature | Prevent overheating | < 65°C |
| Consumption vs Production | Self-consumption rate | Maximize self-use |
Common Performance Issues
| Issue | Symptom | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Panel soiling | Gradual 5-10% drop | Clean panels (rain or hose) |
| Shading (new) | Sudden drop in one string | Trim trees, add optimizers |
| Inverter fault | No production / error code | Check error, reset or service |
| Hot spot | Panel-level underperformance | Thermal scan, replace panel |
| Degradation | 1-2% annual decline | Normal — expected |
| Arc fault | AFCI trip, production stop | Check connections, repair arc |
Inverter App Monitoring
| Inverter Brand | App Name | Features |
|---|---|---|
| SolarEdge | mySolarEdge | Module-level, consumption, alerts |
| Enphase | Enphase App | Per-panel, battery status |
| SMA | Sunny Portal | System-level, Secure Power |
| EG4 | EG4 Monitor | Off-grid, battery, load |
| Sol-Ark | Sol-Ark App | Hybrid, grid, battery |
| Fronius | Solar.web | System-level, detailed |