Great question. eToolLCD assumptions are generally referenced in either the bookmarks against the quantities in question, or in the template description. The solar generation templates you’re using are quite old and the documentation on the assumptions was pretty poor so we’ve updated it and here’s what the template description states now:
Default generation capacity taken from the annualised generation assumed in Schedule 5 of the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Regulations 2001. These generation figures may be lower or higher than actuals or other estimates due to the following variables:
- Tilt and azimuth of panels
- More accurate weather files for predictions in other systems
- Differences between simulated and actual weather files
- Overall system efficiency
- Soiling
- Shading
- Mismatch
- Wiring
- Connections
- Light-Induced Degradation
- Nameplate Rating Variation
- Age Degradation over life of system
- Availability / Utilisation
- Inverter efficiency
Generally when these factors are all accounted for with reasonable assumptions the results actually correlate quite well with the annualised generation assumed in Schedule 5 of the Renewable Energy Regulations.
