Australian startup develops AI model to forecast solar ouput based on satellite data

Summary

Solar eclipsing coal is the lead source of electricity generation in Australia. The question of how to manage this powerful but unpredictable fleet is already a pressing issue. Solstice AI is currently working with one hour forecasts. It uses the information from two datasets, along with some other minor metrics, to create a forecast of the output of all solar systems across a region, as well as individually. The most promising use case for such forecasting will happen when distributed storage becomes more widely integrated. It could also be useful for companies involved in aggregating solar and storage fleets. Currently, the company is looking at using a subscription-based model for its products, though this is still to be finalized. Australia leads the world in the rollout of rooftop solar, which means many of the issues already being encountered here - including problems around voltage control and two-way energy flows in the US and North America - can be tested and solved before entering this much bigger markets.