M · Glossary
MCS performance estimate
Also known as Solar PV performance estimate, MCS PV performance estimate
An MCS performance estimate is a pre-contract solar PV calculation that estimates annual generation and, where relevant, self-consumption using the MCS method rather than promising actual output.
An MCS performance estimate is the solar PV pre-sale calculation required by MIS 3002 before the contract is awarded. The standard method estimates first-year annual AC output from installed kWp, postcode-region kWh per kWp data, array orientation, array inclination and shade factor, using the calculation Annual AC output = kWp x Kk x SF. The same MCS table can also show PV self-consumption assumptions, including occupancy archetype and any usable battery-storage capacity where applicable. MCS says the estimate is guidance only and not a guarantee of generation or self-consumed energy; if site details were assessed remotely, actual performance may be significantly lower or higher when orientation, inclination or shading differs.
Category
Documents, warranties and handover
Applies to
Solar
Last reviewed