SolarAnywhere® real-time irradiance data is generated using the same steps and model input fields as the SolarAnywhere historical data model, but with several efficiency optimizations and variations in input data sources. The real-time model is built to provide the best-available irradiance and weather estimates for any given time and location. This means that until a data is re-generated using the historical data model and archived, real-time data values are subject to change based on the time of the request.
When Does SolarAnywhere Real-time Data Transition to Historical Data?
The transition timing depends on the SolarAnywhere model version, as described below.
SolarAnywhere versions 3.5 and later: At midnight UTC on the 6th of each month, SolarAnywhere data from 2 months prior is re-generated using the SolarAnywhere historical model and archived. Once data is archived, it will not change within the data version. For example, at midnight UTC on the 6th of July, the data for May will be re-generated and archived with historical models.
SolarAnywhere versions 3.4 and prior: At midnight UTC on the 16th of each month, SolarAnywhere data from 1 month prior is re-generated using the SolarAnywhere historical model and archived. Once data is archived, it will not change within the data version. For example, at midnight UTC on the 16th of July, the data for June will be re-generated and archived with historical models.
How Do I Know When the Transition Has Occurred?
To understand when the transition from the real-time to historical model has occurred, you can:
- Check the Irradiance Observation Type irradiance and weather data field in your SolarAnywhere time series downloads. Please note, this field is only available when you select the SolarAnywhere output file format.
- Request Irradiance Observation Type as an output field in your API requests
How Can I Access Real-time Data?
Real-time, time-series data can be downloaded from the SolarAnywhere data website or requested via API with access to a Sites license. Real-time data is also accessible via API with access to a SolarAnywhere® SystemCheck® license.
The data can be requested in 15-minute, 30-minute or hourly resolution. Spatial resolution is dependent upon the geographic data region.