graph LR
pvlib_solarposition["pvlib.solarposition"]
pvlib_clearsky["pvlib.clearsky"]
pvlib_location_Location["pvlib.location.Location"]
pvlib_solarposition -- "provides solar position data to" --> pvlib_location_Location
pvlib_clearsky -- "provides clear-sky irradiance data to" --> pvlib_location_Location
pvlib_location_Location -- "delegates to" --> pvlib_solarposition
pvlib_location_Location -- "orchestrates" --> pvlib_clearsky
The Environmental Conditions & Solar Geometry subsystem is a critical part of pvlib-python, focusing on calculating fundamental environmental parameters for photovoltaic (PV) modeling.
This component serves as the core computational engine for precise astronomical calculations. Its primary responsibility is to determine the solar position (zenith and azimuth angles) at a given time and location, along with related parameters such as Earth-Sun distance, equation of time, declination, and sunrise/sunset/transit times. It embodies the scientific algorithms for solar geometry.
Related Classes/Methods:
This component implements various atmospheric and radiative transfer models. Its main responsibilities include estimating solar radiation under ideal clear-sky conditions and providing methods to detect clear-sky periods from measured irradiance data. It encapsulates the models necessary for baseline irradiance calculations.
Related Classes/Methods:
This component acts as a high-level facade and orchestrator, encapsulating the geographical and temporal context (latitude, longitude, altitude, timezone) of a PV system. Its responsibility is to provide site-specific environmental data by delegating to and orchestrating calls to the pvlib.solarposition and pvlib.clearsky components. It simplifies the user interface for common environmental calculations.
Related Classes/Methods: