Holistic Digitalization of Photovoltaic Systems: Connected Data for All Life Cycle Phases

Despite significant advances in photovoltaics, the digital mapping of the entire value chain remains fragmented. Data is available in different and often inconsistent formats, interfaces are not standardized, which is why seamless exchange between planners, manufacturers, operators, and service providers is often lacking. This leads to processes that act as stumbling blocks in analysis, optimization, and quality assurance—especially along the different life phases of PV systems.

The overarching goal of the »PVConnect« project is to significantly advance the digitization of the photovoltaic value chain. To this end, a uniform, cross-phase data model is to be developed that integrates technical, economic, and administrative information from all phases of a PV system's life cycle – from planning and construction to operation and decommissioning. In addition, standardized interfaces will be created to enable consistent and interoperable data exchange between all relevant players, such as manufacturers, planners, operators, and service providers.

Another focus is on evaluating the added value of data: criteria will be developed to make the technical and economic benefits of digitized data transparent. Practical applicability will be tested using prototype use cases, for example for automated diagnostics, AI-supported analyses, and operational optimizations.

The solution approach comprises several steps:

1. Inventory & stakeholder analysis
A comprehensive analysis of existing data structures and the stakeholder landscape is carried out to identify roles, interfaces, and data flows.

2. Integration of adjacent domains
Data requirements from energy meteorology and building management are taken into account in order to create an expandable and future-proof database.

3. Development of an interoperable data framework
A structured exchange framework is being developed that includes clear information models for components and defined interfaces for internal and external services.

4. Technology-neutral implementation with AI
With the involvement of industrial partners and an open technology approach, AI-based methods are being used to optimize the analysis and use of data.

These measures will create a sustainable and networked data and service architecture that significantly increases efficiency and quality in photovoltaics. The close cooperation between Fraunhofer CSP, Mondas GmbH, Centroplan Services, Centroplan Group, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Helmholtz-Institut Erlangen-Nürnberg, and Fraunhofer ISE forms a solid basis for practice-oriented implementations.