Comparative Analysis Between Simulation Using Specialized Software for Photovoltaic Power Plant Design and Real-World Data from a Solar Power Plant †

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis between simulated results obtained using PVSol Expert software and real operational data from a functioning photovoltaic power plant (PVPP) located in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The primary objective is to evaluate the accuracy and practical applicability of simulation-based predictions compared to actual system performance under real-world climatic and geographical conditions. The analysis is based on a comprehensive dataset, including generated electricity, solar irradiance levels, ambient temperature, and system losses. These real measurements are systematically compared against a PVSol Expert simulation model constructed using identical input parameters—such as module orientation and tilt, number and type of panels, inverter specifications, and electrical configuration. The results provide insight into the reliability of simulation tools for design verification and performance forecasting in photovoltaic applications.