• DATA
  • MODEL
  • REPORT
  • HUMAN

How to estimate solar energy production with your AI

Connect to NREL data once. Your AI handles the math and site analysis from there.

Ask AI about this page

Short answer

How can I use AI to calculate solar production?

Your AI uses NREL datasets to pull solar radiation levels and run PVWatts models for specific locations. You'll get precise energy production estimates and resource data for any site you're studying.

The analysis outcomes.

What you get from the data.

The AI processes NREL data into specific site metrics.

DATA

Solar resource maps

The AI pulls specific radiation and irradiance data for your coordinates. You get the raw environmental numbers needed for modeling.

MODEL

PVWatts estimates

Your agent runs the PVWatts algorithm to predict annual energy yield. This gives you a concrete number for expected production.

REPORT

Feasibility summaries

The AI compiles the radiation data and energy yields into a single summary. You can use this to decide if a site is worth pursuing.

HUMAN

Final design decisions

The AI provides the math, but you decide on the hardware and final installation plan. You use the estimates to justify your engineering choices.

The workflow

What your AI does when the data request arrives.

The AI moves from raw location data to finished energy models.

  1. Locate the site

    The AI identifies the exact solar resource characteristics for your target coordinates.

    get_solar_resource

  2. Query specific datasets

    Your agent pulls the necessary NREL solar data points required for your specific study.

    get_solar_data_query

  3. Run PVWatts models

    The AI calculates energy production estimates based on the retrieved solar resource data.

    get_pvwatts_estimates

  4. Synthesize results

    The AI organizes the radiation levels and production numbers into a readable format for your project.

    get_pvwatts_estimates

Try it

Copy these to start.

Use these prompts to trigger the NREL data tools.

Starting points

Swap out the bracketed info for your actual project details.

NREL Connector

You're all set. Choose your MCP client and follow the setup instructions.

Connector linkhttps://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_Na9bgA4nwhnalZcInCroU3LuW93H99ceWQeFcc60/mcp

Claude Desktop

Follow the steps below to connect in seconds.

  1. 1In Claude Desktop, open Settings → Connectors.
  2. 2Click “Add custom connector” and paste the connector link above as the remote MCP server URL.
  3. 3Click Add and start a new chat — NREL capabilities are ready to use.
Configuration · claude_desktop_config.jsonCopy
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "nrel-energy-data-mcp": {
      "url": "https://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_Na9bgA4nwhnalZcInCroU3LuW93H99ceWQeFcc60/mcp"
    }
  }
}
Copy into chat04

  • Get the solar resource data for a site at 34.05, -118.24.

  • Run a PVWatts estimate for a 5kW system at these coordinates: 40.71, -74.00.

  • Query the NREL solar data for a site in Phoenix, Arizona to check radiation levels.

  • Compare the solar radiation data for two different locations in Denver to see which is better for solar.

  • Claude
  • ChatGPT
  • Cursor
  • VS Code
  • Windsurf
  • Claude Code
  • JetBrains
  • Cline

Start here

Connect NREL Energy Data once, then ask.

Click the link to connect. Your credentials stay encrypted, and you can immediately start asking your AI for solar data.

Connect NREL Energy Data to your AI

FAQ

How this task behaves.

  • 01

    Can the AI design the actual solar array layout?

    No. The AI provides the solar radiation and production estimates, but you must handle the physical design and layout.

  • 02

    Can the AI purchase solar equipment?

    No. The AI only accesses NREL data to provide estimates; it cannot interact with hardware or retail stores.

  • 03

    Does the AI provide real-time weather updates?

    No. The tools are designed for solar resource and PVWatts estimation, not live meteorological monitoring.

  • 04

    Can I use this for any location?

    Yes, as long as the NREL datasets cover that specific geographic area.

  • 05

    Will the AI save my project files?

    No. The AI uses the data to answer your questions, but it doesn't manage your local file storage.

  • More questions about NREL Energy Data? The Connector page answers them. See everything the NREL Energy Data Connector can do

Connect NREL to Claude, Cursor, ChatGPT & more