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Photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely adopted for renewable energy generation, but their performance is influenced by complex interactions between longer-term trends and seasonal variations. This study aims to remove these factors and provide valuable insights for optimising PV system operation. We employ comprehensive datasets of measured PV system performance over five years, focusing on identifying the distinct contributions of longer-term trends and seasonal effects. To achieve this, we develop a novel analytical framework that combines time series and statistical analytical techniques. By applying this framework to the extensive performance data, we successfully break down the overall PV system output into its constituent components, allowing us to find out the impact of the system degradation, maintenance, and weather variations from the inherent seasonal patterns. Our results reveal significant trends in PV system performance, indicating the need for proactive maintenance strategies to mitigate degradation effects. Moreover, we quantify the impact of changing weather patterns and provide recommendations for optimising the system’s efficiency based on seasonally varying conditions. Hence, this study not only advances our understanding of the intricate variations within PV system performance but also provides practical guidance for enhancing the sustainability and effectiveness of solar energy utilisation in both residential and commercial settings. Full article

In the United States, there is no comprehensive energy policy at the federal level. To address issues as diverse as climate change, energy security, and economic development, individual states have increasingly implemented Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPSs), which mandate that utility providers include a specified amount of electricity from renewable energy sources in their total energy portfolios. Some states have included incentives for individual energy technologies in their RPS, such as solar electric (also called photovoltaic or PV technology). Here, we use GIS to visualize adoption of RPSs and electricity generation from renewable energy sources in the US and examine changes in renewable electricity and solar electric generation over time with the goal of informing future policies aimed at promoting the adoption of renewable energy technologies. Full article