How Many Research Papers Can You Write from this Platform?

All 47 Papers - 8 Research Domains, 12 Target Journals, High-Impact Papers

How this works: Every IST PVSolar simulation generates a rich multi-variable hourly dataset — 8,760 timesteps of irradiance, cell temperature, I-V curve parameters, shading factors, bifacial gain, inverter efficiency, loss cascade, and financial projections. Each of the simulator's 25 research sub-tabs is a dedicated diagnostic engine that turns that dataset into publication-ready figures, tables, and statistical analyses. A single well-designed project on IST PVSolar can fuel 47 or more distinct research papers across eight academic domains, from top-tier journals like Solar Energy (Elsevier) and Applied Energy to IEEE conference proceedings.

Tip for prolific output: Design simulations across 5 Indian climate zones (Rajasthan hot-dry, Mumbai tropical-coastal, Bengaluru mild, Delhi composite, Kolkata humid) and 3 project types (residential rooftop, C&I rooftop, ground-mount). Each combination is a new data point — multiply 5 sites × 3 types × 3 orientations and you have 45 datasets, each capable of anchoring a separate case-study paper or providing comparative data for a multi-site study.

☀ Irradiance & POA Transposition

Solar Resource & Plane-of-Array Modelling

The simulator's Perez (1990) anisotropic transposition model, Liu-Jordan beam decomposition, Erbs DHI decomposition, and multi-source TMY benchmarking (NASA POWER, PVGIS, manual) form a complete irradiance research workbench. 6 papers possible.

6 papers

IST-IRR-001Comparative

Comparative Accuracy of POA Transposition Models for Indian Climate Zones: Perez vs. Hay-Davies vs. Reindl

Uses Tab 2's switchable transposition models (Perez full anisotropic, Hay-Davies, Reindl) across 5 Indian climate zones with NASA POWER and PVGIS TMY data. Computes monthly MBE and RMSE for each model against PVGIS reference. Produces a climate-zone recommendation matrix for Indian EPC engineers.

Tab 2 POATab 1 TMYResearch → Weather

5 sites3 modelsIEC 61724-1Indian data

IST-IRR-002Validation

NASA POWER vs. PVGIS TMY: Quantifying Irradiance Uncertainty for Indian Rooftop Solar Yield Assessment

Imports both NASA Hourly TMY and PVGIS TMY into Tab 1 and runs the Weather Source Benchmarking research module. Reports interannual GHI variability, annual H_POA difference, and resulting yield uncertainty (σ%) for 10 Indian cities. Directly feeds P90 exceedance calculations.

Tab 1 TMYResearch → Weather Benchmarking

10 citiesP50/P90Uncertainty

IST-IRR-003Experimental

Optimum Fixed-Tilt Angle Across Indian Latitudes: A 2D Tilt×Azimuth Irradiance Grid Study

Runs the Research → Tilt/Azimuth/GCR Optimization 2D grid (tilt 0–60° × azimuth −90° to +90°) at 10° spacing for 10 Indian cities. Maps the annual H_POA heatmap, identifies true joint optima vs. the latitude-rule-of-thumb, and evaluates east-west vs. south-facing yield trade-offs for time-of-use tariff structures.

Research → Tilt/Azimuth/GCRTab 2 Auto-Optimize

10 cities169 grid pts/cityToU tariffs

IST-IRR-004Experimental

Spectral Mismatch Correction for Mono-PERC, HJT, and CdTe Modules Under Indian Monsoon Conditions

Runs the Research → Spectral Mismatch module for four module technologies (mono-c-Si, HJT, CdTe, a-Si) across coastal Mumbai, humid Kolkata, and dry Jodhpur. Quantifies the air-mass and precipitable-water driven monthly spectral modifier M and its annual energy impact (%). Identifies the technology with best spectral advantage in each climate.

Research → Spectral MismatchTab 7 Hourly

4 technologies3 climate zonesFirst Solar model

IST-IRR-005Comparative

Transposition Factor Sensitivity to GHI Data Source: Implications for Pre-Investment Solar Yield Studies in India

Investigates how substituting NASA POWER for PVGIS as the TMY source changes the Transposition Factor (FT) and annual H_POA for fixed-tilt arrays across 20 Indian sites. Quantifies the systematic bias between satellite products at monsoon-affected sites and provides correction guidance.

Tab 1 TMY ImportTab 2 POAResearch → Weather

20 sitesFT analysisMonsoon bias

IST-IRR-006Review

Far-Horizon and Near-Shading Irradiance Losses at Urban Rooftop Sites in India: A Systematic Assessment Using DSM and Open Buildings Data

Uses Tab 2's Near/Far Shading module (Copernicus DEM GLO-30 + VIDA Open Buildings) across 30 urban rooftop sites in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Classifies shading loss by city morphology (dense-urban, suburban, industrial) and develops a shading-loss allowance table for Indian rooftop solar DPRs.

Tab 2 Horizon/Near ShadingTab 1 Site Condition

30 sitesDSM/DEMUrban morphology

🌡 Thermal Modelling

Module Temperature & Thermal Loss Analysis

The Research → Module Temperature Deep Research module compares Faiman, NOCT, Sandia, and Ross models using AI/ML regression on simulated hourly data, plus measured temperature validation. 5 papers possible.

5 papers

IST-THM-001Comparative

Four Thermal Models for PV Modules Under Indian Hot-Arid and Tropical Conditions: Faiman, NOCT, Sandia, and Ross Compared

Uses Research → Module Temperature Deep Research to train and compare all four thermal models on 8,760-hr simulation data from Jodhpur (hot-arid) and Mumbai (tropical-coastal). Reports RMSE, MAE, R², and annual energy error for each model. Quantifies the cost of using NOCT-only vs. Faiman wind-corrected thermal modelling for Indian bankable yield studies.

Research → Module TempTab 7 HourlyResearch → AI/ML

4 thermal models2 climate zonesAI regression

IST-THM-002Validation

Field Validation of the Faiman Uc/Uv Thermal Model Against SCADA Back-of-Module Temperature Data at an Indian Rooftop Plant

Imports measured back-of-module temperature CSV into Research → Module Temperature → Measured Validation sub-tab. Compares Faiman, NOCT, Sandia, and Ross predicted temperatures against real SCADA data stratified by month, irradiance band, wind band, and hour-of-day. Fits calibrated Uc/Uv coefficients for Indian mounting conditions.

Research → Module Temp → Measured Val.Research → SCADA Benchmarking

SCADA dataIEC 61724MBE/RMSE/R²

IST-THM-003Experimental

Impact of Mounting Configuration on Annual Thermal Loss in Indian BIPV and Rooftop Systems: Free-Mounted vs. Semi-Integrated vs. Fully Insulated

Simulates four Tab 4 mounting configurations (Free Mounted, Open Rack, Semi-integrated, Fully insulated) using the same site data. Quantifies the annual thermal loss difference (%) and its temperature-dependent interaction with cell technology and climate zone. Practical guidance for BIPV architects and green building certifications.

Tab 4 ThermalTab 7 HourlyResearch → Module Temp

4 mounting typesBIPV relevanceUc/Uv

IST-THM-004Experimental

Machine Learning Prediction of PV Module Temperature from Simulated Hourly Data: OLS vs. Random Forest vs. Gradient Boosting

Trains the simulator's built-in OLS model (Research → AI/ML) on 8,760-hr thermal data, then extends the study by exporting the CSV and building Random Forest and Gradient Boosting models externally. Compares prediction accuracy (R², RMSE) and identifies the top irradiance/wind/hour features for module temperature. First India-focused ML thermal study using a web-based simulator.

Research → AI/MLTab 7 CSV Export

OLS, RF, GBMFeature importanceNovel ML angle

IST-THM-005Experimental

Heat-Wave Impact on PV Yield in Indian Cities: Quantifying the Energy Loss Premium of Extreme Temperature Events Under IPCC AR6 Scenarios

Uses Research → Climate Risk panel to model +1°C, +2°C, +3°C ambient temperature rise scenarios. Combines with Faiman cell-temperature outputs to quantify annual energy loss (%) per warming scenario for five Indian cities. Derives a per-degree-warming energy loss coefficient (kWh/kWp/°C) for Indian mono-PERC systems.

Research → Climate RiskResearch → Module TempTab 7 Hourly

IPCC AR6Climate change5 cities

⚡ Bifacial PV Systems

Bifacial Gain Modelling, Optimisation & Validation

The simulator's PDVF bifacial engine (pvlib infinite_sheds equivalent), bifacial SAT optimisation, albedo sensitivity, and multi-model comparison tools enable a complete bifacial research programme. 6 papers possible.

6 papers

IST-BIF-001Comparative

Bifacial Gain Model Comparison for Indian Ground-Mount Systems: PVsyst View-Factor vs. pvlib Infinite-Sheds vs. SAM Simple-Bifacial

Uses Research → Bifacial Gain Deep Research to compare PVsyst view-factor, pvlib infinite_sheds (PDVF), and SAM simple-bifacial models across GCR 0.25–0.55, height 0.5–2.5 m, and albedo 0.15–0.55 at 5 Indian sites. The first Indian-focused multi-model bifacial comparison study.

Research → Bifacial CharacterisationResearch → PDVF Model

3 modelsGCR sweepIndian albedo data

IST-BIF-002Experimental

Dynamic Albedo Impact on Bifacial Gain: Seasonal Ground-Reflectance Variation at Indian Agricultural, Desert, and Urban Sites

Assigns monthly albedo profiles (post-harvest bare soil, green crop canopy, pre-monsoon dry soil) to bifacial arrays at 5 Indian agri-solar sites. Runs the PDVF model for each profile and reports monthly bifacial gain variation, peak gain months, and annual bifacial energy premium over monofacial equivalent.

Tab 2 Bifacial / Ground TypeResearch → Bifacial CharacterisationResearch → PDVF

Seasonal albedoAgri-solar relevance5 sites

IST-BIF-003Experimental

GCR and Mounting Height Optimisation for Bifacial SAT Systems in India: Multi-Objective LCOE and Energy Analysis

Uses SAT Research → Bifacial SAT Optimization to sweep GCR (0.25–0.55) × height (0.8–2.5 m) and compute bifacial gain, annual energy, and LCOE for 3 Indian sites. Identifies the Pareto-optimal GCR/height combination that minimises LCOE while maintaining acceptable bifacial gain.

Research → SAT → Bifacial SAT Optim.Tab 6 Economics

GCR × Height gridLCOE minimisationSAT systems

IST-BIF-004Validation

PDVF Bifacial Model Field Validation: Simulated vs. Measured Rear-Side Irradiance at a 5 MWp Indian Ground-Mount Plant

Imports measured rear-irradiance pyranometer data from a SCADA CSV into the SCADA Benchmarking module and aligns it with PDVF-simulated rear G_eff. Computes monthly MBE, RMSE, and R² stratified by hour-of-day and solar elevation. The first field-validation paper for an India-built bifacial simulation engine.

Research → SCADA BenchmarkingResearch → PDVF

Field validationIEC 61724Novel India data

IST-BIF-005Case Study

Bifacial vs. Monofacial: 25-Year Lifetime Energy and Financial Comparison for PM-KUSUM C-2 Ground-Mount Projects in Rajasthan

Designs a 1 MWp PM-KUSUM C-2 project in Jodhpur using bifacial (φ=0.70) and equivalent monofacial modules. Runs 25-year lifetime aging model, computes P50/P90 annual energy, IRR, LCOE, and NPV for both. Quantifies the bankability premium of bifacial technology for MNRE scheme financing.

Tab 2 BifacialTab 4 AgingTab 6 EconomicsTab 7 Simulation

PM-KUSUM C-225-yr lifetimeRajasthan

IST-BIF-006Experimental

Bypass Diode Activation and Electrical Mismatch in Partially-Shaded Bifacial Arrays: A Simulation Study of Reverse I-V Loss Under Indian Shading Conditions

Activates Tab 2's Electrical Shadings module for bifacial arrays with varied bypass-diode configurations (2, 3, 4 diodes) at three shading geometries (20%, 40%, 60% row shadow fraction). Quantifies the partial-shading electrical mismatch loss (separate from geometric shading loss) and its interaction with bifacial rear irradiance.

Tab 2 Electrical ShadingsTab 2 BifacialTab 7 Hourly

Bypass diode modelMismatch lossRow shading

🏗 Shading & 3D Layout

Shadow Analysis, Row Spacing & Site Layout Optimisation

The simulator's 3D shadow studio, horizon analysis (Copernicus GLO-30), GCR optimisation, SAT terrain-following study, and LiDAR shading characterisation form a powerful shading research toolkit. 5 papers possible.

5 papers

IST-SHA-001Experimental

GCR Optimisation for Utility-Scale Bifacial Solar in India: Tilt×GCR Annual Energy and DC Density Trade-off at 5 Climate Zones

Runs Research → Tilt/Azimuth/GCR → Tilt×GCR 2D grid at 5 Indian climate zones for bifacial mono-PERC modules. Quantifies the Pareto front between annual energy per module (low GCR) and DC capacity per hectare (high GCR). Produces India-specific GCR design guidelines for different tariff environments.

Research → Tilt/GCR OptimisationTab 2 Row SpacingTab 2 Bifacial

GCR 0.25–0.55DC density5 climate zones

IST-SHA-002Validation

Accuracy of Copernicus DEM GLO-30 Far-Horizon Shading Loss Estimates for Indian Rooftop Sites Compared with Manual Horizonscope Survey

Runs Tab 2's horizon import from Copernicus DEM GLO-30 and PVGIS for 20 rooftop sites in hilly (Shillong, Mussoorie) and flat urban (Delhi, Chennai) settings. Compares computed shading loss against manual surveyed horizon profiles entered via the manual entry tool. Quantifies the DSM coarseness bias for urban building shading.

Tab 2 Horizon/Near ShadingTab 2 Manual Horizon

20 sitesDEM vs surveyHilly terrain

IST-SHA-003Experimental

Terrain-Following vs. Flat-Graded SAT Arrays on Undulating Indian Sites: Energy Yield, Shading Loss, and Civil Cost Trade-off

Uses Research → SAT → Terrain-Following Tracker Study to compare terrain-following HSAT vs. graded flat-plane layout across flat, rolling, and hilly terrain classes for 3 Indian sites. Reports relative energy yield, residual inter-row shading, and civil/earthwork cost index — directly applicable to EPC site selection decisions.

Research → SAT → Terrain StudyTab 2 SAT

3 terrain classesCivil cost indexSAT backtracking

IST-SHA-004Case Study

Shadow-Free Row Pitch Design for PM Surya Ghar Rooftop Installations: A Parametric Study of December 21 Winter Solstice Shading at 10 Indian Latitudes

Uses Tab 2's 3D Shadow Studio and RSC shading window tool (9:00–15:00) for 10 Indian latitudes (8°N to 32°N). Computes minimum shadow-free pitch for 1-, 2-, and 3-module stacks at south-facing 15° tilt. Produces a practical reference table for PM Surya Ghar vendors designing residential rooftop layouts.

Tab 2 3D Shadow StudioTab 2 RSC Model

10 latitudesPM Surya GharPitch reference table

IST-SHA-005Experimental

East-West vs. South-Facing Rooftop Arrays in Indian Commercial Buildings: Shading Loss, Self-Consumption, and Grid Export Under Time-of-Use Tariffs

Designs E-W and south-facing arrays for 10 Indian C&I rooftop sites using Tab 2 azimuth optimisation and the self-consumption battery dispatch model (Tab 3). Compares annual energy, shading loss, self-consumption ratio, and peak-hour injection value under ToU tariff structures. Directly applicable to C&I net-metering DPRs.

Tab 2 Azimuth/TiltTab 3 Self-ConsumptionTab 6 ToU tariff

E-W vs SouthToU tariffsC&I rooftop

📉 Loss Chain & Yield

PV System Loss Modelling, Soiling & Degradation

Tab 4's complete loss cascade (22+ named loss rows), the Soiling & Degradation research panel (LID, LeTID, seasonal soiling), and the aging lifetime engine generate a rich body of loss-modelling research. 7 papers possible.

7 papers

IST-LOS-001Experimental

Seasonal Soiling Loss Profiles for Indian Solar PV: Monsoon, Post-Harvest Dust, and Inter-Cleaning Interval Optimisation

Runs Research → Soiling & Degradation for daily soiling rates of 0.03–0.15%/day (Rajasthan) with cleaning intervals of 7, 14, 21, 30 days and monsoon reset months for 5 cities. Computes seasonal soiling profiles, annual energy loss (%), and the optimal cleaning interval that minimises LCOE. First India-specific soiling interval optimisation using a dedicated simulator.

Research → Soiling & DegradationTab 4 Soiling LossResearch → AI/ML Cleaning

5 citiesSoiling rate sweepMonsoon reset

IST-LOS-002Comparative

LID vs. LeTID vs. Linear Degradation: 25-Year Lifetime Energy Impact on Mono-PERC, HJT, and TOPCon Modules in Hot Indian Climates

Uses Research → Soiling & Degradation → Degradation Models panel to simulate LID-only, LeTID, and linear degradation for three module technologies across 25-year lifetime in Jodhpur (hot-arid). Quantifies the lifetime energy loss difference and derives the actuarial degradation rate that lenders should use in P90 modelling for each technology.

Research → Soiling/DegradationTab 4 Aging LossTab 7 Lifetime

LID/LeTID models3 technologies25-yr lifetime

IST-LOS-003Experimental

DC/AC Ratio Optimisation for Indian C&I Solar: Inverter Clipping Loss vs. Annual Yield Trade-off Using Sub-hourly Simulation

Designs 5 Indian C&I rooftop systems at ILR 1.0–1.6 using Tab 5 sub-array design and runs Tab 7 sub-hourly (35,040 steps) simulation. Quantifies monthly clipping loss profiles, annual clipping loss (%), and net energy benefit of higher ILR. Derives the optimal ILR for different solar irradiance regimes and tariff structures.

Tab 5 Sub-array DesignTab 4 Clipping LossTab 7 Sub-hourly

ILR 1.0–1.6Sub-hourlyC&I rooftop

IST-LOS-004Experimental

Inverter Euro-Efficiency vs. Weighted Indian-Climate Efficiency: Re-evaluating Inverter Selection for High-Irradiance Indian Sites

Uses Tab 3's inverter efficiency curve model and Research → Inverter Performance Deep Research to compute the actual annual energy-weighted efficiency for 10 Indian inverter models across 3 climate zones. Compares energy-weighted efficiency with declared Euro-efficiency and derives India-weighted efficiency correction factors.

Tab 3 InverterResearch → Inverter PerformanceTab 7 Hourly

10 inverter modelsEuro vs India efficiencyMPPT analysis

IST-LOS-005Review

Complete PV System Loss Characterisation for Indian Grid-Connected Projects: A Taxonomy and Quantification Across 22 Loss Categories

Systematically quantifies all 22+ Tab 4 loss rows (irradiance → thermal → soiling → spectral → IAM → LID → mismatch → aging → wiring → inverter → clipping → auxiliary → AC) for a representative Indian C&I rooftop and ground-mount system. Produces the first India-specific complete loss Sankey diagram and benchmark table.

Tab 4 All Loss RowsTab 7 SimulationResearch → Sensitivity

22 loss categoriesSankey diagramBenchmark study

IST-LOS-006Experimental

Mid-Life Repowering vs. Module Replacement: 25-Year Financial Optimisation for Aging Indian Rooftop Solar Plants

Uses Research → Repowering/Revamp Comparison to model As-Is, module replacement (Year 12), and inverter upgrade (Year 10) scenarios for a 100 kWp C&I plant. Derives IRR, NPV, and cumulative energy for each scenario. First India-specific repowering financial optimisation study using an integrated lifetime simulation engine.

Research → Repowering/RevampTab 4 AgingTab 6 Economics

3 repowering scenariosIRR/NPV25-yr lifetime

IST-LOS-007Experimental

Parameter Sensitivity Tornado for Indian PV System Yield: Ranking the 15 Most Influential Design Variables Using First-Order Perturbation Analysis

Runs Research → Sensitivity Analysis (Tornado) for a representative 500 kWp C&I system, perturbing tilt, GCR, ILR, soiling rate, degradation rate, thermal model, albedo, and 8 other parameters. Ranks variables by annual energy impact (%). Provides Indian EPC engineers with a data-driven design priority framework.

Research → Parameter SensitivityTab 7 Monthly Engine

15 parametersTornado chartDesign priority

🤖 Validation, AI & ML Research

Simulation Validation, Machine Learning & Fault Detection

The SCADA Benchmarking module, IEC 61724-style metrics, and the AI/ML Research panel (OLS regression, energy prediction, fault prediction, PR prediction, soiling prediction) form a dedicated validation and data-science research stream. 7 papers possible.

7 papers

IST-VAL-001Validation

IEC 61724-1 Inter-Model Benchmark: IST PVSolar V9 vs. PVsyst 7 for Fixed-Tilt and SAT Systems Across Five Indian Climate Zones

Designs identical systems in both simulators for 5 Indian sites (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Jodhpur, Kolkata), fixed-tilt and SAT. Computes MBE, RMSE, nRMSE, R², and monthly energy deviation. The definitive accuracy validation paper for IST PVSolar — the primary reference for lender bankability assessment.

Tab 7 Full SimulationResearch → UncertaintyIEC 61724 metrics

5 sites × 2 configsIEC 61724 MBE/RMSEBankability anchor

IST-VAL-002Validation

SCADA-Anchored Field Validation of IST PVSolar V9: Simulated vs. Measured AC Generation at an Operational 1 MWp Indian Plant

Imports real 8,760-hr SCADA CSV from a 1 MWp plant with calibrated pyranometers into the SCADA Benchmarking module. Runs IEC 61724-1 filtering (night, curtailment, outages) and computes overall, monthly, irradiance-band, and hour-of-day MBE/RMSE/R². The field validation paper that directly supports lender confidence in IST PVSolar.

Research → SCADA BenchmarkingTab 7 Hourly

SCADA validationIEC 61724 filteringOperational plant

IST-VAL-003Experimental

Machine Learning Energy Prediction from Simulated PV Data: OLS, Polynomial, and Neural Network Models Compared on 8,760-hr Indian Plant Data

Trains the simulator's built-in OLS models (Research → AI/ML → Energy Prediction) on 8,760-hr data from 5 Indian sites. Exports hourly CSV and builds polynomial regression and simple neural network models externally. Compares prediction accuracy, feature importance (GHI, T_cell, hour, month), and computational cost. First study using IST PVSolar's AI research module.

Research → AI/ML → Energy PredictionTab 7 CSV Export

OLS + ML models5 sitesFeature importance

IST-VAL-004Experimental

Performance Ratio Degradation Fault Detection Using Simulation-Trained ML: Identifying Inverter Trips, Soiling Events, and String Faults in Indian Rooftop Plants

Uses Research → AI/ML → Fault Prediction and PR Prediction to train fault-detection models on synthetic fault-injected 8,760-hr simulation data (inverter trip, soiling surge, string open-circuit). Tests detection accuracy and false-positive rate. Framework applicable to Indian PM Surya Ghar vendor monitoring requirements.

Research → AI/ML → Fault PredictionResearch → AI/ML → PR PredictionResearch → SCADA

Fault injectionPR-based detectionPM Surya Ghar

IST-VAL-005Experimental

AI-Driven Cleaning Schedule Optimisation for Indian Rooftop Solar: Simulation-Trained Soiling Prediction vs. Fixed-Interval Cleaning

Combines Research → AI/ML → Soiling Prediction with Research → Soiling & Degradation seasonal model to build a cleaning-trigger ML model (threshold PR drop → clean). Compares AI-triggered vs. fixed 14-day and 30-day cleaning schedules for energy yield and cleaning cost-benefit over 3 Indian sites.

Research → AI/ML → Cleaning ScheduleResearch → Soiling & Degradation

AI cleaning triggerCost-benefit3 sites

IST-VAL-006Experimental

Uncertainty Quantification for Indian Rooftop PV Yield: A Root-Sum-Square Analysis of Six Independent Uncertainty Sources per IEC 61724-3

Uses Research → Uncertainty Analysis for 20 Indian rooftop plants, varying irradiance uncertainty (3–8%), model uncertainty (1–3%), soiling uncertainty (0.5–2%), and 3 other sources. Derives P50/P90/P95 exceedance bands and shows how each source shifts the P90 gap. Guidance for Indian DPR preparers on conservative P90 modelling.

Research → Uncertainty AnalysisTab 4 σ inputs

IEC 61724-36 uncertainty sourcesP90 guidance

IST-VAL-007Review

IST PVSolar Simulator as a Research Platform: Capability Assessment, Validation Status, and Roadmap vs. PVsyst, SAM, and HelioScope

A comprehensive review paper describing IST PVSolar V9's 25 research modules, physics engine, and validation status. Compares feature coverage with PVsyst, SAM/NREL, and HelioScope. Identifies the platform's unique strengths (Indian regulatory integration, AI/ML research, SCADA benchmarking) and remaining gaps. A reference paper for the Indian solar research community.

All Tabs & Research Modules

Platform reviewComparativeIndian research community

💰 Financial, Bankability & Policy

Economic Modelling, Bankability & Scheme Analysis

Tab 6's full financial engine (CAPEX, OPEX, IRR, LCOE, DSCR, Monte Carlo, Financial Risk Tornado, Due Diligence checklist) enables a rich body of policy-relevant financial research for Indian solar schemes. 6 papers possible.

6 papers

IST-FIN-001Case Study

Financial Viability of PM Surya Ghar Rooftop Systems for Indian Households: IRR, Payback, and LCOE Analysis Across Subsidy, Load, and Tariff Scenarios

Designs 1 kW, 2 kW, and 3 kW PM Surya Ghar systems for 10 Indian DISCOMs with actual subsidy amounts (₹30,000–₹78,000) and state tariffs. Runs Tab 6 financial analysis for each. Derives IRR, simple payback, LCOE, and 25-year NPV. Quantifies the financial case for different household consumption profiles and state tariff structures.

Tab 6 EconomicsTab 7 SimulationTab 6 CAPEX/OPEX

PM Surya Ghar10 DISCOMs₹ subsidy model

IST-FIN-002Experimental

Monte Carlo Financial Risk Analysis for Indian C&I Rooftop Solar: P10/P50/P90 IRR and DSCR Distributions Under Tariff, CAPEX, and Degradation Uncertainty

Runs the Tab 6 Monte Carlo (5,000 trials) for a 500 kWp C&I rooftop project varying tariff (±15%), CAPEX (±10%), degradation (0.3–0.7%/yr), and discount rate (8–14%). Reports P10/P50/P90 distributions of IRR, NPV, DSCR by year, and equity IRR. First published Monte Carlo financial risk study for Indian C&I solar using an integrated simulation-financial platform.

Tab 6 Monte Carlo (5,000 trials)Tab 6 Financial Risk

Monte Carlo 5,000 trialsP90 DSCRC&I rooftop

IST-FIN-003Experimental

Financial Risk Tornado for Utility-Scale Indian Solar: Ranking CAPEX, Tariff, Degradation, and Financing Risk by Equity IRR Impact

Runs Research → Financial Risk Tornado for a 10 MWp ground-mount project across 4 risk categories (technical, CAPEX, OPEX, financial — 30 variables total). Ranks by equity IRR impact. Identifies whether module prices, tariff escalation, or interest rate is the dominant risk for Indian utility-scale solar — a key input for project finance structures.

Research → Financial Risk TornadoTab 6 Full Engine

30 risk variablesEquity IRRUtility-scale

IST-FIN-004Case Study

Accelerated Depreciation vs. Standard Depreciation for Indian C&I Solar: After-Tax IRR and Effective Project Cost Analysis Under IT Act Section 32

Uses Tab 6's depreciation module (WDV vs. SLM, 40% accelerated + 20% additional depreciation, tax holiday years) to compute after-tax cash flows, tax shields, and effective project cost for a 200 kWp C&I rooftop. Quantifies the IRR premium from accelerated depreciation vs. SLM for different corporate tax brackets.

Tab 6 Tax & DepreciationTab 6 Financial Analysis

IT Act Section 32WDV vs SLMC&I India

IST-FIN-005Comparative

LCOE Benchmark for Indian Rooftop Solar Across 5 Technology Configurations: Monofacial, Bifacial, HJT, TOPCon, and BIPV

Designs 5 identical 100 kWp rooftop systems with different module technologies using Tab 3 and runs Tab 6 full LCOE analysis incorporating technology-specific CAPEX benchmarks, degradation rates, and spectral gains. Produces the first multi-technology LCOE comparison study for Indian C&I rooftop using an integrated simulation-financial platform.

Tab 3 Module SelectionTab 6 LCOEResearch → Spectral

5 technologiesLCOE comparisonIndian CAPEX

IST-FIN-006Case Study

AC-Coupled BESS Optimisation for Indian C&I Rooftop: Self-Consumption, Peak Shaving, and Payback Under DISCOM ToU Tariffs

Uses Tab 3's AC-coupled battery dispatch model with the SCR sweep optimiser for a 200 kWp C&I rooftop in Mumbai under ToU tariff structure. Computes optimal battery size (kWh), self-consumption ratio, self-sufficiency ratio, and payback period at grid import caps of 50, 100, 150 kW. First India BESS dispatch study using IST PVSolar.

Tab 3 AC Battery DispatchTab 3 SCR SweepTab 6 Economics

BESS dispatchToU tariffsSCR/SSR

🌾 Climate Risk & Agrivoltaics

Climate Change Impacts, Agrivoltaic Land Use & Emerging Applications

Research → Climate Risk and Research → Agrivoltaics panels, combined with the SAT research workbench and repowering module, open an emerging research frontier for India. 5 papers possible.

5 papers

IST-CLI-001Experimental

IPCC AR6 Climate Scenarios and Indian Solar PV Yield: Quantifying the Combined Energy and Financial Impact of Temperature Rise, Increased Soiling, and Cyclone Downtime

Uses Research → Climate Risk to model RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios (temperature +1.5°C/+3°C, reduced rain-cleaning, cyclone probability 5%) for 5 Indian climate zones. Computes annual energy loss (%), IRR reduction, and NPV impact. The first India-specific climate-change financial impact study for solar PV using a dedicated simulation panel.

Research → Climate RiskTab 6 Financial EngineResearch → Soiling

RCP 4.5 / 8.5IPCC AR6IRR/NPV impact

IST-CLI-002Experimental

Agrivoltaic System Design for Indian Wheat and Paddy Crops: Under-Panel Light Availability, Land Equivalent Ratio, and PV Yield at Variable GCR and Clearance Height

Uses Research → Agrivoltaics to sweep clearance height (2–5 m) and GCR (0.15–0.40) for wheat and paddy shade-tolerance profiles at 5 Indian agricultural states. Computes monthly under-panel light availability, Land Equivalent Ratio, and PV yield. Identifies the GCR/height combination that maximises LER for each crop type.

Research → AgrivoltaicsTab 2 Row Spacing

LER metricWheat & paddy5 states

IST-CLI-003Case Study

Fixed vs. Single-Axis Tracker Energy and LCOE at Five Indian Sites: A Quantitative Decision Framework for EPC Project Selection

Runs SAT Research → Fixed vs. SAT Comparison for 5 Indian sites (Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra, Tamil Nadu). Reports monthly and annual energy gain, LCOE difference, and breakeven CAPEX premium for SAT over fixed-tilt. Provides a data-driven EPC decision matrix keyed to irradiance regime and GCR.

Research → SAT → Fixed vs SATTab 2 SATTab 6 LCOE

5 sitesSAT breakevenEPC decision tool

IST-CLI-004Experimental

Drought and Reduced-Cleaning Events Under Projected Indian Summer Monsoon Variability: Soiling Loss Amplification in Western and Central India

Uses Research → Climate Risk → Drought scenario combined with Research → Soiling seasonal model for extended dry-spell durations (30, 60, 90 days between monsoon resets) in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. Quantifies soiling-loss amplification and its interaction with degradation and yield exceedance under IPCC AR6 SSPS scenarios.

Research → Climate RiskResearch → Soiling & Degradation

SSPS scenariosDrought impactWestern India

IST-CLI-005Review

Research Opportunities in Indian Solar PV Simulation: A Systematic Survey of Publication Gaps Addressable Through Web-Based Simulation Platforms

A meta-review paper mapping published Indian solar research gaps (2018–2026) against the 47+ research topics addressable by IST PVSolar V9. Demonstrates how a web-based simulation platform with integrated AI/ML, SCADA benchmarking, and India-specific regulatory coverage enables a new generation of accessible, reproducible Indian solar research. A citation-generating anchor paper for the IST research programme.

All 25 research modules

Meta-reviewResearch gap mappingIST anchor paper

Complete Research Index

All 47 Papers — Quick Reference Matrix

Publication strategy tip: Start with IST-VAL-001 (inter-model benchmark) and IST-VAL-002 (SCADA field validation) — these two papers establish the platform's credibility and are referenced by every subsequent paper in the corpus. Then publish IST-VAL-007 (platform review) as a review anchor. The remaining 44 papers can be sequenced by domain depth, targeting 3–4 papers per year over a 12-year research programme.

Paper ID	Title (abbreviated)	Type	Simulator Tabs Used	Target Journal	Impact
IST-IRR-001	POA Transposition Model Comparison — 5 Indian Climate Zones	Comparative	Tab 2, Tab 1 TMY, Research Weather	Solar Energy	★★★★
IST-IRR-002	NASA POWER vs PVGIS TMY Uncertainty for Indian Yield	Validation	Tab 1, Research Weather Benchmark	Renewable Energy	★★★★
IST-IRR-003	Optimum Tilt×Azimuth 2D Grid — 10 Indian Cities	Experimental	Research Tilt/Azimuth/GCR	Energies (MDPI)	★★★
IST-IRR-004	Spectral Mismatch — Monsoon Conditions, 4 Technologies	Experimental	Research Spectral Mismatch	Solar Energy Materials	★★★★
IST-IRR-005	Transposition Factor Sensitivity to GHI Data Source	Comparative	Tab 1 TMY, Tab 2, Research Weather	Energy Reports	★★★
IST-IRR-006	Far-Horizon Shading Loss — 30 Urban Indian Rooftop Sites	Review	Tab 2 Horizon, Tab 1 Site Condition	Building & Environment	★★★
IST-THM-001	Four Thermal Models Compared — Hot-Arid vs Tropical India	Comparative	Research Module Temp, Tab 7	Solar Energy	★★★★
IST-THM-002	Faiman Model Validation vs SCADA Back-of-Module Temperature	Validation	Research Module Temp Validation	Applied Energy	★★★★★
IST-THM-003	Mounting Configuration Impact on Thermal Loss — BIPV	Experimental	Tab 4 Thermal, Tab 7, Research Temp	Energy & Buildings	★★★★
IST-THM-004	ML Prediction of Module Temperature — OLS vs RF vs GBM	Experimental	Research AI/ML, Tab 7 CSV	Energies (MDPI)	★★★
IST-THM-005	Heat-Wave Impact on PV Yield — IPCC AR6 Scenarios	Experimental	Research Climate Risk, Research Module Temp	RSE Reviews	★★★★★
IST-BIF-001	Bifacial Model Comparison — PVsyst vs pvlib vs SAM	Comparative	Research Bifacial, Research PDVF	Solar Energy	★★★★★
IST-BIF-002	Dynamic Albedo Impact on Bifacial Gain — Agricultural Sites	Experimental	Tab 2 Bifacial, Research Bifacial	Renewable Energy	★★★★
IST-BIF-003	GCR × Height Optimisation for Bifacial SAT — LCOE	Experimental	Research SAT Bifacial Optim.	Progress in PV (IF 8.7)	★★★★★
IST-BIF-004	PDVF Field Validation — 5 MWp Indian Ground-Mount	Validation	Research SCADA, Research PDVF	Applied Energy	★★★★★
IST-BIF-005	Bifacial vs Monofacial — 25-yr PM-KUSUM C-2 Study	Case Study	Tab 2, Tab 4, Tab 6, Tab 7	Energy Reports	★★★
IST-BIF-006	Bypass Diode Activation in Partially-Shaded Bifacial Arrays	Experimental	Tab 2 Electrical Shadings	IEEE Journal PV	★★★★
IST-SHA-001	GCR Optimisation — Tilt×GCR Grid, 5 Indian Climate Zones	Experimental	Research Tilt/GCR	Solar Energy	★★★★
IST-SHA-002	Copernicus DEM vs Manual Horizonscope Survey Accuracy	Validation	Tab 2 Horizon, Manual Entry	Remote Sensing (MDPI)	★★★
IST-SHA-003	Terrain-Following vs Flat-Graded SAT — Energy & Civil Cost	Experimental	Research SAT Terrain Study	Renewable Energy	★★★
IST-SHA-004	Shadow-Free Pitch Design for PM Surya Ghar — 10 Latitudes	Case Study	Tab 2 3D Shadow Studio, RSC	Energy Reports	★★★
IST-SHA-005	East-West vs South Rooftop — Self-Consumption & ToU Tariffs	Experimental	Tab 2, Tab 3 Battery, Tab 6	Applied Energy	★★★★
IST-LOS-001	Seasonal Soiling Loss — Monsoon & Cleaning Interval Optim.	Experimental	Research Soiling, Tab 4, AI/ML Cleaning	Solar Energy	★★★★
IST-LOS-002	LID vs LeTID vs Linear — 25-yr Impact, Mono-PERC/HJT/TOPCon	Comparative	Research Soiling/Degradation, Tab 4, Tab 7	Progress in PV (IF 8.7)	★★★★★
IST-LOS-003	DC/AC Ratio Optimisation — ILR 1.0–1.6, Sub-hourly	Experimental	Tab 5, Tab 4 Clipping, Tab 7 Sub-hourly	Energies (MDPI)	★★★
IST-LOS-004	Inverter Euro-Efficiency vs India-Weighted Efficiency	Experimental	Tab 3, Research Inverter Performance	IET Renewable Power	★★★
IST-LOS-005	22-Loss-Category Taxonomy and Sankey Diagram — India PV	Review	Tab 4 All Loss Rows, Research Sensitivity	Applied Energy	★★★★
IST-LOS-006	Mid-Life Repowering vs Module Replacement — Financial Optim.	Experimental	Research Repowering, Tab 4, Tab 6	Renewable Energy	★★★★
IST-LOS-007	15-Variable Sensitivity Tornado — Indian C&I System	Experimental	Research Sensitivity Tornado	Energies (MDPI)	★★★
IST-VAL-001	IEC 61724 Inter-Model Benchmark: IST PVSolar vs PVsyst	Validation	Tab 7, Research Uncertainty, IEC 61724	Solar Energy	★★★★★
IST-VAL-002	SCADA Field Validation — 1 MWp Operational Indian Plant	Validation	Research SCADA Benchmarking	Applied Energy	★★★★★
IST-VAL-003	ML Energy Prediction — OLS vs RF vs Neural Network, 5 Sites	Experimental	Research AI/ML Energy, Tab 7 CSV	Energies (MDPI)	★★★
IST-VAL-004	PR-Based Fault Detection — Soiling, Inverter Trip, String Fault	Experimental	Research AI/ML Fault, PR Prediction, SCADA	Measurement	★★★★
IST-VAL-005	AI Cleaning Schedule Optimisation — Simulation-Trained Model	Experimental	Research AI/ML Cleaning, Research Soiling	Renewable Energy	★★★
IST-VAL-006	Uncertainty Quantification — IEC 61724-3, 6 Sources, 20 Plants	Experimental	Research Uncertainty, Tab 4 σ	Solar Energy	★★★★
IST-VAL-007	IST PVSolar as a Research Platform — Capability Review	Review	All 25 research modules	RSE Reviews	★★★★★
IST-FIN-001	PM Surya Ghar Financial Viability — 10 DISCOMs, 3 System Sizes	Case Study	Tab 6, Tab 7, CAPEX/OPEX	Energy Policy	★★★★★
IST-FIN-002	Monte Carlo Financial Risk — C&I Rooftop, 5,000 Trials	Experimental	Tab 6 Monte Carlo	Applied Energy	★★★★
IST-FIN-003	Financial Risk Tornado — Utility-Scale, 30 Risk Variables	Experimental	Research Financial Tornado	RSE Reviews	★★★★
IST-FIN-004	Accelerated Depreciation vs SLM — After-Tax IRR, IT Act S.32	Case Study	Tab 6 Tax & Depreciation	Energy Reports	★★★
IST-FIN-005	LCOE Benchmark — 5 Module Technologies, Indian C&I Rooftop	Comparative	Tab 3, Tab 6, Research Spectral	Renewable Energy	★★★★
IST-FIN-006	AC-Coupled BESS Optimisation — Self-Consumption, ToU Tariffs	Experimental	Tab 3 Battery, SCR Sweep, Tab 6	Applied Energy	★★★★
IST-CLI-001	IPCC AR6 Scenarios — Energy & Financial Impact, 5 Indian Zones	Experimental	Research Climate Risk, Tab 6	Nature Climate / Applied Energy	★★★★★
IST-CLI-002	Agrivoltaics for Indian Wheat & Paddy — LER Optimisation	Experimental	Research Agrivoltaics, Tab 2	Agronomy Sustain. Dev.	★★★★★
IST-CLI-003	Fixed vs SAT — LCOE Decision Framework, 5 Indian Sites	Case Study	Research SAT Fixed vs SAT, Tab 6	Solar Energy	★★★
IST-CLI-004	Drought & Soiling Amplification — Western India, SSPS Scenarios	Experimental	Research Climate, Research Soiling	Climatic Change	★★★★
IST-CLI-005	Research Opportunities in Indian Solar PV Simulation — Meta-Review	Review	All 25 research modules	RSE Reviews	★★★★★