Uncertainty in calibration and characterisation of pyranometers

This work quantifies the uncertainties of thermoelectric pyranometer measurements made with different calibration methods. Measurement campaigns supported both the evaluation of pyranometer calibrations and newly proposed approaches to characterise the pyranometers in indoor and outdoor conditions. Estimated uncertainties were then applied to a year-long irradiance dataset to evaluate the impact on the assessment of the annual solar irradiation. This study highlights the differences seen when calibrating pyranometers under different conditions and procedures. Such deeper insight of pyranometers response aims ultimately to assist the integration of short-term (pyranometers) and long-term (satellite-based) data to a more accurate evaluation of PV energy yield.