GET A QUOTE: sales@columbiaweather.com 1-888-508-7375 M-F 8-5 PT

Weather Stations for Solar Energy Projects

Solar Weather Station

This Solar 1 Weather Station installation shows two radiation sensors, one at plane of array and one at GHI, as well as the Orion weather sensor module on the mast at right. Photo courtesy of Industrial Electrical Contactors Ltd.

Parameters for Weather Monitoring at Solar Farms

Environmental monitoring is critical to optimizing the efficiency of solar power generation.

  • Solar radiation (irradiance): The most important measurement, key to monitoring availability of sunlight.
  • Temperature (ambient/panel): Critical relative to performance as increasing temperatures correlate to decreased efficiency.
  • Wind speed/direction: Less critical, however, wind is a cooling factor which affects efficiency.
  • Precipitation: May interfere, especially in solid form.

Experienced in Weather Monitoring

We’ve been in the weather monitoring business for 40 years and working specifically with the solar energy industry since 2009. We’ve provided weather stations to hundreds of solar energy projects from small to utility-scale.

Flexibility, Automation, Integration for the Solar Industry

Three turnkey meteorological (met) monitoring systems provide options suitable for solar energy projects of any scale. Our standard systems can be customized to suit most requirements.

  • Professional-grade sensors
  • Various solar radiation sensor classes
  • Multiple panel temps option

Multiple interfaces and monitoring options (Modbus RTU, Modbus TCP, BacNet, Browser Interface and more) automate data collection and integrate with SCADA or other plant monitoring systems.

Easy Installation and Operation Saves Money for PV Plants

CWS weather stations are preferred for ease of installation. The systems come complete, tested and pre-configured to facilitate easy installation by your local site electrician or electrical contractor. They do not require programming or special training to install, operate and maintain.

No long-term contract required. You own the equipment and the data. We are readily available for free technical assistance in the unlikely event it is required.

“Your weather stations are quality and your service is outstanding. Way to go!”

Click Here to View Solar Brochure

Optimizing Solar Power Generation Efficiency Application Page

Case study: Swinerton Renewable

Guide to Buying a Professional Weather Station

Weather Station Models.


Solar 1 with Orion

Solar 1

  • Orion all-in-one sensor head
  • Ultrasonic wind sensor
  • Temperature, humidity, and pressure
  • Plus Panel Temp and Solar Radiation
Solar 2 with Capricorn FLX

Solar 2

  • Capricorn FLX modular sensor assembly
  • Mechanical wind sensor
  • Temperature, humidity, and pressure
  • Plus Panel Temp and Solar Radiation
Solar 3 Weather Station

Solar 3

  • Air Temperature
  • Panel Temperature
  • Solar Radiation

Solar 1 Weather Stations feature an Orion all-in-one sensor unit with ultrasonic wind direction and speed measurements, a highly-accurate impact rain sensor, capacitive relative humidity, temperature and barometric pressure readings. No moving parts enhances ease of use and durability. Connected through the Weather MicroServer, the Solar 1 weather station includes panel temperature and solar radiation sensor(s).

Solar 2 Weather Stations feature the Capricorn FLX modular sensor package with mechanical wind sensors, air temperature and humidity sensors in a radiation shield, solid state barometric pressure sensor, plus panel temperature and solar radiation sensor(s) with optional tipping bucket rain gauge. Data output through the Weather MicroServer.

Solar 3 Weather Stations feature the Weather MicroServer with air temperature, panel temperature, and solar radiation sensor(s). Additional optional sensors available.

call to action

Get a Quote

We can help you specify the best weather station for your requirements.

Or call 1-888-508-7375