Information processing system

Abstract

To provide an information processing system which can provide information for further increasing a value of a photovoltaic power generation system.SOLUTION: An information processing system converts a value of a photovoltaic power generation system into an amount of money. The system comprises a sell amount prediction unit which predicts a sell amount obtained by selling a configuration apparatus which configures the photovoltaic power generation system, in a first prescribed period, based on information on a market place. The system notifies a user of the timing when benefit obtained by performing action on operation accompanied by sale of the configuration apparatus increases, based on the sell amount predicted by the sell amount prediction unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, and particularly to an information processing system that supports the operation of a solar power generation system.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, solar power generation systems have become widely popular not only among power companies but also among general consumers. A user, who is a general consumer, installs solar panels within the site of their home or on the roof, and constructs a solar power generation system together with necessary component devices such as a power conditioner, a monitor for displaying the power generation status, and a storage battery. Then, the user operates electrical appliances in their home using the power generated by the solar power generation system, or sells the power generated by the solar power generation system to the power company.

[0003] That is, the user operates the constructed solar power generation system to obtain profit (income). And there is an information processing system disclosed in Patent Document 1 as an information processing system that provides information regarding the operation of the solar power generation system. The information processing system disclosed in Patent Document 1 predicts the statistical amount of the power generation amount of a solar power generation device in a future predetermined period, multiplies the predicted statistical amount of the power generation amount by the selling electricity price, and converts the value regarding the operation of the solar power generation system into an amount of money. Then, by outputting the converted amount of money to a smartphone or the like, the user can grasp the value regarding the operation of the solar power generation system.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the field of solar power generation, development and research are constantly underway, and new components for solar power generation systems are being introduced to the market one after another. Therefore, when users operate a solar power generation system, even if there are no significant deterioration, damage, or other problems that would prevent its use, it may be necessary to consider replacing components with newer, more advanced products.

[0006] In this case, the components to be replaced are still usable and can be sold for a profit, but the selling price of the components often varies depending on when they are sold. Also, naturally, the amount of electricity generated and the profit (income) earned from the operation will often differ between continuing to operate the solar power generation system as is and continuing to operate it after replacing certain components.

[0007] For these reasons, it was extremely difficult for users to determine, for example, how long to operate a solar power generation system in its current state and at what point to replace which components to maximize profits. And conventional information processing systems had room for improvement in terms of providing information that would be helpful in making such decisions. In other words, conventional information processing systems had room for improvement in that they provided useful information for determining the most appropriate timing to replace components when considering the operation of a solar power generation system, including the replacement of components, in order to maximize profits.

[0008] Therefore, the object of this invention is to provide an information processing system that can provide information to further enhance the value of a solar power generation system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present invention for solving the above problems is an information processing system for converting the value of a solar power generation system into monetary terms, comprising a sales price prediction unit that predicts the sales price to be obtained by selling the components constituting the solar power generation system in a first predetermined period based on market information, and an information processing system that notifies the user of the timing at which the profit obtained by taking operational actions involving the sale of the components will be high, based on the sales price predicted by the sales price prediction unit.

[0010] This information processing system predicts the future sale price of components that make up a solar power generation system and, based on the predicted sale price, notifies users of the time when operational actions involving the sale of components will yield the highest profits. In other words, when considering the operation of a solar power generation system, users can know when to take operational actions involving the sale of components, such as replacing or removing them, to maximize profits. This means that users can obtain useful information to determine the appropriate timing for such operational actions. Therefore, by operating the solar power generation system with this information in mind, the value of the solar power generation system can be further enhanced. In this context, operational actions involving sales refer to operational actions that generate used components that were used as part of a solar power generation system and are eligible for sale, such as the replacement or removal of components as described above.

[0011] The above-described configuration preferably further comprises: a power generation prediction unit that predicts the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system during a second predetermined period based on information including one or more of the specifications of the constituent equipment and the power generation performance of the solar power generation system formed including the constituent equipment; a conversion unit that converts the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period into a power generation amount based on the power generation amount predicted by the power generation prediction unit; and a calculation unit that calculates a predicted value of the amount obtained from the operation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period based on the power generation amount and the sales amount.

[0012] In this scenario, the information processing system has a calculation unit that can calculate a predicted value of the amount of money that can be obtained if the operation of the solar power generation system continues. Specifically, based on the predicted value of the amount of money that can be obtained from power generation over a predetermined period (the second predetermined period) and the predicted value of the amount of money that can be obtained from selling the component equipment, the user can obtain information showing the sum of each amount that is ultimately expected to be obtained (a predicted total amount). From this, the user can use the obtained information to improve the operation of the solar power generation system, thereby increasing the value of the solar power generation system.

[0013] The above-described preferred configuration further comprises a database that records one or more of the following: information regarding the installation location and specifications of the solar power generation system; information regarding the amount of power generation predicted by the power generation prediction unit; information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit; and information regarding the sales price. The database further comprises a comparison unit that, based on the information recorded in the database, compares the predicted amounts of money that can be obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components. It is more preferable that, as a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the components during the first predetermined period, and that the replacement of the components is proposed.

[0014] In this scenario, the projected earnings from operating a solar power generation system with its components replaced are compared to those from operating it without replacing the components. If the comparison indicates that replacing the components will result in higher earnings, then the replacement is proposed. This makes it easier for users to determine when to replace their components.

[0015] In the above-described manner, it is even more preferable that the database further records information regarding subsidy programs for solar power generation, and based on the information recorded in the database, if a new subsidy can be obtained by replacing and / or adding the components to the solar power generation system, an estimated amount including the said subsidy is calculated, and if it is predicted that a larger amount can be obtained compared to not replacing and / or adding the components, then the replacement and / or addition of the components is proposed.

[0016] Under these circumstances, users will find it easier to determine when to replace or add components.

[0017] In the above-described scenario, it is even more preferable that the database further records information about lessors who are able to rent out their roofs, and that based on the information recorded in the database, it is determined whether or not such lessors exist within a predetermined range from the installation site of the solar power generation system, and if such lessors exist, the addition of the solar power generation system is proposed.

[0018] Under these circumstances, users will find it easier to decide whether or not to add more solar power generation systems.

[0019] In the above-described scenario, it is preferable that the database further records information about power companies that sell the electricity generated by the solar power generation system, and that, based on the information recorded in the database, the power purchase prices of the power companies are compared, and if there is a power company that offers a higher power purchase price than the power company currently selling electricity, a switch to that power company is proposed.

[0020] Under these circumstances, it becomes easier for users to decide whether or not to switch the electricity company to which they sell their electricity.

[0021] When the above aspects occur, it is preferable to execute one or more of the following operations (1) to (7) on the condition that information regarding the subsidy system for solar power generation, information regarding the lender who can lend the roof, and information regarding the power selling electric power company that sells the power generated by the solar power generation system are further recorded in the database and new data is recorded in the database. (1) An operation of predicting the selling amount by the selling amount prediction unit. (2) An operation of predicting the power generation amount of the solar power generation system by the power generation amount prediction unit. (3) An operation of comparing, by the comparison unit, the predicted values of the amounts obtained when the component devices of the solar power generation system are replaced and operated and when the component devices are not replaced and operated. (4) An operation of proposing to replace the component devices when, as a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, a larger amount can be obtained by replacing the component devices in the first predetermined period. (5) Based on the information recorded in the database, when a new subsidy can be obtained by replacing and / or adding the component devices to the solar power generation system, calculating the predicted value of the amount obtained including the subsidy, and proposing to replace and / or add the component devices when it is predicted that a larger amount can be obtained compared to the case where the component devices are not replaced and / or added. (6) Based on the information recorded in the database, determining whether the lender exists within a predetermined range from the installation location of the solar power generation system, and proposing to expand the solar power generation system when the lender exists. (7) Based on the information recorded in the database, comparing the power purchase prices of the power selling electric power companies, and proposing to switch the power selling electric power company when there exists a power selling electric power company with a higher power purchase price than the power selling electric power company currently selling power.

[0022] In such a situation, various operations are executed by recording new data in the database. Therefore, the user can obtain information useful for the operation of the solar power generation system based on the latest data. Also, each time new data is recorded, it prompts the user to review the operation of the solar power generation system, thus suppressing the occurrence of problems such as the user forgetting what should be done in operating the solar power generation system.

[0023] In the above-described aspect, it is preferable to further record information regarding the subsidy system for solar power generation, information regarding the lender who can lend the roof, and information regarding the power selling electric power company that sells the electric power generated by the solar power generation system in the database, and execute an operation including one or more of the following (1) to (7) on the condition that a third predetermined period has elapsed. (1) An operation of predicting the selling amount by the selling amount prediction unit. (2) An operation of predicting the power generation amount of the solar power generation system by the power generation amount prediction unit. (3) An operation of comparing, by the comparison unit, the predicted values of the amounts obtained in each case of operating the solar power generation system with the constituent equipment replaced and operating it without replacing the constituent equipment. (4) An operation of proposing to replace the constituent equipment if a larger amount can be obtained by replacing the constituent equipment in the first predetermined period as a result of the comparison by the comparison unit. (5) Based on the information recorded in the database, when it is possible to obtain a new subsidy by replacing and / or adding the constituent equipment to the solar power generation system, calculate the predicted value of the amount obtained including the subsidy, and if it is predicted that a larger amount can be obtained compared to the case where the constituent equipment is not replaced and / or added, an operation of proposing to replace and / or add the constituent equipment. (6) Based on the information recorded in the database, determine whether the lender exists within a predetermined range from the installation location of the solar power generation system, and if the lender exists, an operation of proposing to expand the solar power generation system. (7) Based on the information recorded in the database, the operation compares the electricity purchase prices of the electricity selling companies and, if there is an electricity selling company that offers a higher electricity purchase price than the electricity selling company currently selling electricity, proposes switching to the electricity selling company.

[0024] In this configuration, various actions are performed on the condition that a third predetermined period has elapsed. That is, the user is prompted to review the operation of the solar power generation system at each predetermined period, thereby preventing problems such as the user forgetting what needs to be done to operate the solar power generation system.

[0025] In the above-described scenario, it is preferable that the database further records information regarding the operating costs of the solar power generation system, and that when one or more of the following are performed in relation to the operation of the solar power generation system: replacement of components, addition of components, or repair of components, an estimated value of the amount of money to be obtained from the operation of the solar power generation system is calculated, taking into account the operating costs.

[0026] In this scenario, the information processing system calculates the amount of money that can be earned from continuing to operate the solar power generation system, taking operating costs into account. Therefore, when users consider operating a solar power generation system, they can refer to more accurate information that incorporates operating costs.

[0027] The above-described configuration is more preferable in which the photovoltaic power generation system has a photovoltaic power generation module as one of its components, and further comprises a dirt prediction unit that predicts a decrease in power generation due to dirt on the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module during a fourth predetermined period, and further records in the database one or more of the following: information on the decrease in power generation predicted by the dirt prediction unit, information on the actual value of the decrease in power generation due to dirt on the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module, and information on the removal cost when removing the dirt from the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module, and based on the prediction result by the dirt prediction unit or the actual value of the decrease in power generation due to dirt on the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module, the loss of economic value due to dirt on the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module is converted into a dirt loss amount, the dirt loss amount is compared with the removal cost, and it is more preferable to propose removing the dirt from the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module if the loss of economic value can be reduced by removing the dirt from the surface of the photovoltaic power generation module.

[0028] In this context, the economic loss due to surface contamination of solar power generation modules is converted into a "contamination loss amount," and this amount is compared with the removal cost. Furthermore, if removing the surface contamination of solar power generation modules can further reduce the loss of economic value, then removing the contamination from the surface of the solar power generation modules is proposed. Therefore, it becomes easier for users to decide whether or not to remove dirt from the surface of solar power modules when operating a solar power generation system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing system that can provide information to further enhance the value of a solar power generation system. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0030] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a solar power generation system supported by an information processing system. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the database stored on the server. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a flowchart showing the suggested operation performed by the information processing system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031] Hereinafter, an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system 1 of this embodiment includes a server 2 and a terminal device 3, and the server 2 and the terminal device 3 are connected so that they can communicate with each other via a network 4. In this embodiment, network 4 is the internet, and server 2 and multiple terminal devices 3 are connected in a way that enables them to send and receive signals. However, network 4 is not limited to an external network (wide-area network) such as the internet, but may also be an internal network (local network) such as a LAN (Local Area Network). Naturally, the external network includes cases where a relay station (relay point) is interposed between server 2 and terminal devices 3. It is also conceivable to connect server 2 and terminal devices 3 individually by wired or wireless connections without going through network 4. In other words, it is sufficient that server 2 and one or more terminal devices 3 are connected in a way that enables them to send and receive signals to each other.

[0033] Server 2 has a configuration similar to that of a typical server or PC. Specifically, Server 2 includes a CPU, a storage unit including a main memory and an auxiliary memory unit, a communication unit, and a bus connecting each unit. The main memory is volatile memory and is used as the CPU's workspace. The auxiliary storage unit has non-volatile memory and functions as ROM and storage. It also stores programs for implementing various functions of server 2 and database 8 (see Figure 3, details will be described later). The communications unit is a device used to exchange signals (information) with external equipment. Furthermore, this server 2 may be connected to information input means such as a keyboard and mouse (pointing device) that accept information input from the user, as well as information display means such as a monitor.

[0034] Server 2, as shown in Figure 1, functions as a sales price prediction unit 10, a power generation prediction unit 11, a conversion unit 12, a calculation unit 13, a comparison unit 14, and a dirt prediction unit 15 when various operations are performed, by having the CPU load a program stored in the auxiliary memory into the main memory and execute it.

[0035] Terminal device 3 is a computer (information processing device) having information display means and information input means, and can be a PC (personal computer), tablet terminal, smartphone, etc. The information display means is a display screen (display device) such as a display or monitor, and the information input means is a position input device such as a keyboard, mouse (pointing device), or touchpad. Naturally, the information display means and information input means may also be integrated, such as in a touch panel.

[0036] The terminal device 3 comes with an application (software) pre-installed. That is, a user of the terminal device 3 can launch the application, display an input screen, and perform input and transmission operations to send the entered data to the server 2. Furthermore, when the information processing system 1 performs various operations described later, the terminal device 3 receives data transmitted from the server 2, and a predetermined screen is displayed on the information display means. The terminal device 3 may also have an audio output device such as a speaker. In this case, audio may be output at appropriate timings in conjunction with various operations.

[0037] In this embodiment, the information processing system 1 provides information useful to the user for operating the solar power generation system 25 (see Figure 2), and supports the user's operation of the solar power generation system 25. In this embodiment, although not particularly limited, it is intended to support the operation of a solar power generation system 25 for general residential use.

[0038] An example of a solar power generation system 25 for general residential use that supports operation is shown in Figure 2. Specifically, the solar power generation system 25 includes solar cell modules 30, mounting components 31, a junction box 32, a power conditioner 33, a distribution board 34, an electricity meter 35, a storage battery 36, and a monitor (not shown) as its components. The solar power generation system 25 is not necessarily limited to this configuration; for example, it may omit some of the components of the solar power generation system 25 described above. For example, the solar power generation system 25 may not include the storage battery 36. Conversely, the solar power generation system 25 may include components other than those described above, such as a dirt detection device.

[0039] The solar cell module 30 is formed by attaching auxiliary components to a solar cell panel. The solar cell panel is a plate-shaped component formed by including multiple electrically connected solar cells (solar cell elements), and the auxiliary components include a frame component, a terminal box, a buffer component, and an output cable for power extraction connected to the terminal box. Each solar cell module 30 is fitted with the necessary auxiliary components. For example, the solar cell module 30 may have a frame component, or it may be a so-called frameless type without a frame component.

[0040] The mounting component 31 is a metal structure used to attach the solar cell module 30 to the installation site, and specifically includes a mounting frame, fixing brackets, etc.

[0041] The junction box 32 is a device that aggregates the power generated by multiple solar cell modules 30 into a single output system. It also includes a reverse current prevention diode to prevent current from flowing into the solar cell modules 30, and a fuse, circuit breaker, etc., to interrupt the current path in the event of a large current flow. To explain in detail, in the solar power generation system 25, one or more solar cell modules 30 are treated as one block (string), and one set of wiring extends from each of the multiple blocks (detailed illustration omitted). Then, in the solar power generation system 25 which has a junction box 32, the wiring coming from each block is bundled into one set within the junction box 32 and connected to the power conditioner 33. In other words, multiple blocks are electrically connected in parallel to collect power and connect to the power conditioner 33.

[0042] The power conditioner 33 is a device that converts the DC power input from the solar cell module 30 (junction box 32) into AC power. In other words, it converts the frequency and voltage of the power generated by the solar cell module 30 into AC power that is compatible with the commercial power grid, so that the power generated by the solar cell module 30 can be connected to the commercial power grid and used. In other words, the power conditioner 33 is equipped with an inverter device that converts direct current to alternating current, and a controller that controls the voltage and frequency of the alternating current converted by the inverter device.

[0043] The distribution board 34 is a device that distributes AC power (commercial power) from the commercial power grid and generated power supplied by the power conditioner 33 to each power load 38 (for example, air conditioners, lights, etc.). The distribution board 34 in this embodiment is equipped with safety devices such as a ground fault circuit interrupter (not shown).

[0044] The electricity meter 35 is a measuring device that includes a meter for purchasing electricity and a meter for selling electricity. In other words, it can measure the amount of electricity purchased that is supplied from the commercial power grid to the distribution board 34, the amount of electricity sold that is supplied to the commercial power grid, and the amount of electricity generated by the solar cell module 30. Furthermore, the electricity meter 35 in this embodiment can also measure the amount of electricity discharged from the storage battery 36 and the amount of electricity charged into the storage battery 36.

[0045] The battery 36 charges and discharges electricity from the commercial power grid and electricity generated by the solar cell module 30 as needed, and is composed of, for example, a lithium-ion battery.

[0046] In this solar power generation system 25, multiple solar cell modules 30 are mounted on the roof via mounting components 31 (fixing brackets) and arranged in a row. These multiple solar cell modules 30 arranged in a row function as a solar power generation unit that generates electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The electricity generated by the solar power generation unit is supplied to the power load 38 via a power conditioner 33 and a distribution board 34. If there is a surplus of power supply to the power load 38, the generated electricity is charged to a storage battery 36, and if there is still a surplus, the generated electricity is sold to the power company. If the power load 38 is greater than the power generated by the solar power generation unit, the storage battery 36 is discharged. This makes it possible to supplement the daytime electricity supply, where the unit price of electricity is high, with surplus generated electricity, thus reducing the amount of electricity purchased from the power company. The amount of electricity purchased and sold is measured by an electricity meter 35. The indoor monitor displays the power usage of each device, the power self-sufficiency rate, the power generation status and power consumption at a specified date and time, etc.

[0047] As described above, Server 2 stores Database 8 (see Figure 3). This Database 8 is a structured collection of various information about the solar power generation system 25 (details will be described later). In other words, Database 8 records various information about the solar power generation system 25, and Server 2 can retrieve various information recorded in Database 8 by referring to it.

[0048] The database 8 of this embodiment has multiple tables, including, for example, the table shown in Figure 3 (only some of the tables included in database 8 are shown, and the other tables are omitted from the illustration).

[0049] In other words, as shown in Figure 3, database 8 has a table (hereinafter also referred to as master table 45) that records the system ID, administrator name, administrator address, installation location, and installation location ID. The "System ID" is an identifier that uniquely identifies the solar power generation system 25. "Administrator Name" is information indicating the name of the administrator of each of the 25 solar power generation systems. The "administrator address" is information indicating the address of the administrator of each of the 25 solar power generation systems. "Installation location" refers to information indicating the location where the solar power generation system 25 is installed. The "Installation Location ID" column is an item used for linking with other tables (not shown) that record detailed information about the "Installation Location." In other words, the "Installation Location ID" is information that indicates a management number that serves as the key for linking (associating) the locations.

[0050] In other words, the master table 45 is linked to other tables (not shown) that record detailed information about the "installation location". Therefore, by referring to the database 8, it is possible to obtain detailed information about the installation location where each solar power generation system 25 is installed. The detailed information about the installation location includes information about the annual solar radiation at the installation location, information indicating the area of ​​the installation location, and information indicating the orientation of the installation location (roof orientation). The information about the annual solar radiation may include, for example, the amount of sunshine and solar radiation for each time period (e.g., every hour) for multiple years. Furthermore, the detailed information about the "installation location" may include information indicating whether the "installation location" is in an area where the surface of the solar cell module 30 is prone to getting dirty. If the "installation location" is in an area where the surface of the solar cell module 30 is prone to getting dirty, information specifying what kind of area it is may be recorded, for example, information indicating that it is installed next to a busy road, in an area with a lot of yellow dust, or in an area where volcanic ash falls. Thus, the database 8 of this embodiment records information regarding the installation location of each solar power generation system 25.

[0051] Furthermore, the master table 45 is associated with an external table for each solar power generation system 25, which contains detailed information about the aforementioned components. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the master table 45 is associated with a table (hereinafter also referred to as the solar cell table 46) that records detailed information about the solar cell module 30.

[0052] This solar cell table 46 records information about the solar cell modules 30 attached to each photovoltaic power generation system 25, as shown in Figure 3(b). "Manufacturer Name" is information indicating the manufacturer of the solar cell module 30. The "model number" is information that indicates a number assigned to each product model. "Maximum output" refers to information indicating the maximum output of the solar cell module 30, and in this embodiment, it is the nominal maximum output. In other words, the database 8 of this embodiment records information regarding the performance (specifications) of the solar cell module 30. The "Sales Price" column is an item for linking with other tables (hereinafter also referred to as the sales price table, not shown in the diagram) that record detailed information (more details will be provided later) regarding the sales price of the solar cell modules 30. In other words, the "Sales Price" in the solar cell table 46 is information that indicates a management number that serves as the key for linking (associating) the data. "Number of installations" indicates the number of units installed in the corresponding solar power generation system 25.

[0053] From the above, for example, by referring to database 8, we can see that the solar power generation system 25 installed in Tokyo, where the "System ID" is "1", has "〇△" solar cell modules 30 manufactured by "Company A" installed (where 〇△ are positive integers). Similarly, the solar power generation system 25 installed in Osaka, where the "System ID" is "2", has "〇〇" solar cell modules 30 manufactured by "Company A" and "△△" solar cell modules 30 manufactured by "Company B" installed (where 〇〇 and △△ are both positive integers). Thus, the database 8 of this embodiment records information indicating the number of solar cell modules 30 installed in each solar power generation system 25.

[0054] Furthermore, the solar cell module 30 can be uniquely identified from the "manufacturer name" and "model number." In other words, the database 8 of this embodiment records information indicating the solar cell module 30 installed in the solar power generation system 25.

[0055] As described above, database 8 stores various types of information, and each piece of stored information can be retrieved by referring to one or more items stored in one or more tables. The structure of database 8 (how each piece of information is recorded in database 8) may be changed as appropriate. For example, one piece of information may be recorded in one table, or it may be recorded in multiple related tables. Each piece of information to be recorded in database 8 only needs to be obtainable by referencing one or more tables in database 8. Detailed explanations of how each piece of information is specifically stored in database 8, as described below, will be omitted.

[0056] In the database 8 of this embodiment, as described above, the master table 45, the solar cell table 46, and the sales price table are linked, and by referring to these, information regarding the sales price of the solar cell modules 30 can be obtained. In other words, the database 8 records information regarding the sales price of the solar cell modules 30 (market information).

[0057] The information regarding the sale price of solar cell modules 30 is information on the trend of sale prices over a predetermined period in the past, obtained in advance through surveys, etc. For example, for solar cell modules 30 with model number XXXX manufactured by Company A, the average sale price in January of year YY was XX yen, and the average sale price in February of the same year was XX yen. This information shows the sale prices for multiple periods (or multiple points in time) within a predetermined period (for example, the past 10 years). The average sale price is the average of the purchase prices from multiple buyers. Furthermore, in this embodiment, information regarding the resale value of the solar cell module 30 is also stored, including information regarding the change in resale value due to changes in the years of use of the solar cell module 30. For example, for a solar cell module 30 of model number XXXX manufactured by Company A, the resale value of a new / used item as of January of year YY was XX yen, the resale value of an item used for one year at the same time was 〇〇 yen, and the resale value of an item used for five years at the same time was △△ yen. Database 8 records information regarding the sale price for each uniquely identified solar cell module 30.

[0058] Furthermore, as mentioned above, database 8 also stores detailed information about other components different from the solar cell module 30. In other words, it records information that identifies each component, information about the performance of each component (specifications), and information about the selling price of each component (market information).

[0059] Furthermore, database 8 contains the following information (1) to (11): (1) Information regarding the power generation performance of the solar power generation system. (2) Information regarding the specifications of the solar power generation system. (3) Information regarding subsidy programs for solar power generation. (4) Information on lessors who are available to rent out their roofs. (5) Information regarding electricity companies that sell electricity. (6) Information regarding the operating costs of solar power generation systems. (7) Information on actual values ​​of power generation reduction due to fouling. (8) Information regarding the sale price predicted by the sale price prediction unit. (9) Information regarding the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit. (10) Information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit. (11) Information regarding the prediction results of the decrease in power generation.

[0060] "Information regarding the power generation performance of solar power generation systems 25" (hereinafter also referred to as "power generation performance information") is information regarding the amount of electricity generated by each solar power generation system 25 in the past. For example, solar power generation system 25 with the above-mentioned "System ID" of "n" generated XX kWh in January of the past year YY, □□ kWh in February of the same year, and ... in March of the same year. In other words, it is information that shows the amount of electricity generated over multiple periods (or multiple points in time) within a predetermined period (for example, the past 10 years). Database 8 contains information on the past power generation performance for each of the 25 solar power generation systems.

[0061] "Information regarding the specifications of the solar power generation system 25" (hereinafter also referred to as "system specification information") is information that shows the specifications (performance) of each solar power generation system 25. Here, at least some of the system specification information can also be obtained based on information regarding the specifications of one or more components of each solar power generation system 25. To explain in more detail, for example, information regarding the output of the solar power generation system 25 can be obtained based on information regarding the specifications (performance) of the solar cell modules 30 and information regarding the specifications (performance) of the power conditioner 33. In other words, it can be obtained based on information regarding the output of the solar cell modules 30, information regarding the number of modules installed, and information regarding the power conditioner 33.

[0062] In this embodiment, system specification information is pre-recorded in database 8, and when performing operations such as power generation prediction (details to be described later), an operation is performed to refer to database 8. However, this is not limited to this, and when performing an operation based on system specification information (for example, the power generation prediction operation described later), an information acquisition operation may be performed to acquire system specification information based on information regarding the specifications of the constituent equipment prior to execution. Also, when information regarding the specifications of the constituent equipment is newly recorded, an information acquisition operation may be performed prior to the execution of an operation based on system specification information, and an operation may be performed to pre-record the system specification information in database 8.

[0063] In this embodiment, the database 8 records information about the solar power generation system 25, including information that identifies the start date of operation of the solar power generation system 25. That is, by obtaining this information that identifies the start date of operation and comparing it with a specific date (for example, the current date), the operating period of the solar power generation system 25 up to that specific date can be obtained.

[0064] "Information regarding subsidy programs for solar power generation" (hereinafter also referred to as "subsidy information") is information regarding subsidy programs that provide subsidies when additional equipment is added to the solar power generation system 25 or when components that meet performance requirements are adopted. In this embodiment, this information includes information that uniquely identifies the subsidy program, information that indicates the amount obtainable by utilizing the subsidy program, information that indicates the period during which the subsidy program can be used, and information that indicates the conditions for utilizing the subsidy program. In this embodiment, this information is recorded in association with each other. "Information that uniquely identifies a subsidy program" is, for example, an identifier (ID) assigned to each subsidy program. "Information indicating the period during which the subsidy program is available" includes, for example, information regarding the application period and information regarding the period during which necessary construction or procedures must be carried out to receive the subsidy.

[0065] Therefore, by referring to database 8, it becomes possible to obtain information such as, for example, that subsidy program A, with ID "1", is a program that provides a subsidy of XX yen on the condition that a new storage battery 36 is added to a solar power generation system 25 that does not have a storage battery 36. Furthermore, it becomes possible to obtain information that applications for this subsidy program A must be submitted between YY / XX / XX and YY / YY / XX, that is, information that determines whether or not subsidy program A is applicable from the present time onward. Based on the above, by referring to Database 8, it becomes possible to determine whether or not there are any applicable subsidy programs for each solar power generation system 25 at a given time (period). Furthermore, if applicable subsidy programs exist, it becomes possible to identify how many such programs are applicable and what conditions must be met to obtain them. Finally, it becomes possible to determine the amount of the subsidy that will be provided if applicable.

[0066] "Information regarding lessors who are willing to rent out their roofs" (hereinafter also referred to as "lessor information") refers to lessors who wish to (and consent to) renting out the roofs of their houses, etc., as installation sites for components of a solar power generation system 25 operated by others. In the following explanation, the roofs of houses, etc., that are subject to rental will be simply referred to as the installation sites. Specifically, this lender information includes information about the lender and information about the installation location (or expansion location). In this embodiment, this information is recorded in association with each other. Information regarding the lessor includes, for example, information identifying the lessor, such as the lessor's name and address. Information regarding the installation location (or expansion location) includes, for example, information indicating the location of the installation location, the area of ​​the installation location, the orientation of the installation location (roof orientation), and the annual amount of solar radiation at the installation location. Similarly, information indicating whether the installation location is in an area where the surface of the solar cell module 30 is prone to getting dirty may also be included, and information specifying what kind of area is prone to getting dirty may also be included.

[0067] "Information regarding electricity purchasing companies" (hereinafter also referred to as "sales destination information") includes information indicating electricity companies that can purchase the electricity generated by the solar power generation system 25, and information indicating the sale price per unit when selling the electricity. This information is recorded in conjunction with other relevant information as appropriate. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sales destination information includes information identifying the electricity companies to which each solar power generation system 25 currently sells its electricity. Therefore, by referring to database 8, it becomes possible to obtain information such as: Solar power generation system 25 with "System ID" "1" is capable of selling to company A at XX yen / kWh and to company B at XX yen / kWh. Furthermore, it becomes possible to obtain information such as: Solar power generation system 25 with "System ID" "1" is currently selling the electricity it generates to company A at XX yen / kWh. In this embodiment, database 8 records information about the electricity company that sells electricity to each solar power generation system 25. Furthermore, if it is known in advance that the per-unit selling price will be changed in the future, information regarding the changed per-unit selling price and the date on which the changed per-unit selling price will be applied is also recorded in association with the database.

[0068] "Information regarding the operating costs of the solar power generation system 25" (hereinafter also referred to as "operating cost information") is information regarding the costs required when maintenance and management are performed on the solar power generation system 25. "Maintenance and management" here refers to, for example, the replacement of components of the solar power generation system 25, the addition of components (including the expansion of the solar power generation system 25), the removal of components, and maintenance (cleaning, inspection). The operational cost information includes information indicating the type of maintenance and management required, and information indicating the costs associated with such maintenance and management. This information is recorded in a way that links it appropriately.

[0069] Therefore, by referring to database 8, information can be obtained such as, "When replacing the solar cell module 30 of solar power generation system 25 with 'System ID' '1', the cost per module is XX yen, for a total of XX yen." In other words, information indicating the cost of replacing components can be obtained for each solar power generation system 25. If there are multiple costs (candidate costs) for replacement, such as XX yen per module from contractor A and △ yen per module from contractor B, each cost may be recorded. The same applies to other components.

[0070] In other words, for each solar power generation system 25, it is possible to obtain information indicating the costs required for adding, replacing, or removing each component belonging to the solar power generation system 25. For example, for a solar power generation system 25 with "System ID" "1", the cost would be XX yen for adding a solar cell module 30, XX yen for replacing a power conditioner 33, XX yen for adding a storage battery 36, and XX yen for removing one. Furthermore, for each solar power generation system 25, information can be obtained showing the cost of each type of maintenance performed on the solar power generation system 25. For example, for a solar power generation system 25 with "System ID" "1", cleaning the surface of the solar cell modules 30 costs XX yen, and inspecting the electrical system costs XX yen.

[0071] In this embodiment, the operating cost information includes information regarding the cost of removing dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30 (hereinafter also referred to as removal cost information). The removal cost information indicates the cost required to remove dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30, and is the information indicating the cost of cleaning among the maintenance costs mentioned above.

[0072] "Information regarding actual values ​​of power generation reduction due to surface contamination of modules" (hereinafter also referred to as "actual reduction value information") is information that shows the changes in surface contamination of the solar cell module 30 over time since the start of operation, and the corresponding degree of reduction in power generation. In other words, the performance degradation information includes information about the components of the solar power generation system 25 that was operated in the past, information about the environment of the installation site, and information indicating the degree of contamination obtained when the solar power generation system 25 was operated in the past. Furthermore, it includes information indicating the degree of reduction in power generation according to the degree of contamination. Each piece of information is recorded in an appropriate manner and linked together.

[0073] Here, the information regarding the environment of the installation site includes information indicating whether or not the installation site is in an area where the surface of the solar cell module 30 is prone to getting dirty, and if so, information indicating what kind of area it is. The information indicating what kind of area it is is similar to the detailed information of the "installation site" mentioned above, for example, information indicating that it is installed next to a road with heavy traffic, in an area with a lot of yellow dust, or in an area where volcanic ash falls. Therefore, by referring to the data on actual degradation values, it is possible to obtain information such as the contamination rate of a solar power generation system 25 with solar cell modules 30 manufactured by Company A, installed next to a busy road, being 50 percent after X years and 80 percent after X years. In addition, it is possible to obtain information such as the power generation decreasing by 3 percent when the contamination rate is 50 percent and decreasing by 8 percent when the contamination rate is 80 percent. In the example above, "information indicating the degree of soiling" is "soiling rate." This information may be obtained by a soiling detection device if the solar power generation system 25 is equipped with one. Alternatively, it may be obtained by visual inspection by a person based on predetermined standards.

[0074] The "information regarding the sales price predicted by the sales price prediction unit 10" is information that shows the result of the sales price prediction operation (details of which will be described later). Specifically, it is information that shows the predicted future sales price of the components of the solar power generation system 25. This information is recorded in the database 8 after the sales price prediction operation is performed.

[0075] The "information regarding the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit 11" is information that shows the result of the power generation prediction operation (details will be described later), and specifically, it is information that shows the future amount of power generated (predicted value of power generation). This information is recorded in the database 8 after the power generation prediction operation is performed.

[0076] "Information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit 12" is information indicating the result of the operations performed by the conversion unit 12 (value conversion unit) to convert economic value into monetary amounts (economic value conversion operation, dirt loss conversion operation, etc., which will be described in detail later). This information is recorded in the database 8 after the execution of each operation.

[0077] The "information regarding the decrease in power generation predicted by the fouling prediction unit 15" is information that shows the result of the fouling prediction operation (details will be described later), and specifically, it is information that shows the degree of future decrease in power generation (predicted value of power generation decrease). This information is recorded in the database 8 after the fouling prediction operation is performed.

[0078] Next, we will describe the operations that the information processing system 1 of this embodiment can perform.

[0079] The information processing system 1 of this embodiment is capable of performing the following operations (1) to (6). (1) Sales price prediction operation (2) Power generation prediction operation (3) Economic value conversion process (4) Proposal for expansion (5) Proposal process for potential buyers (6) Maintenance suggestion action

[0080] The "sale price prediction function" is an operation that predicts the future sale price of one or more components that make up the solar power generation system 25. Specifically, it calculates predicted sale prices for multiple periods (or multiple points in time) within a predetermined future period (hereinafter also referred to as the first predetermined period). For example, if the first predetermined period is 10 years from the present, it calculates the sale price if sold within 1 year from the present (or the sale price after 1 year), the sale price if sold between 1 year and 2 years (or the sale price after 2 years), and so on.

[0081] Specifically, as described above, Server 2 functions as the sales price prediction unit 10 by loading and executing the program. The sales price prediction unit 10 then retrieves information regarding the sales price of each component recorded in Database 8. By comparing the acquired information, it is possible to determine how much the resale value of a uniquely identified component decreases with age. To explain in detail, for example, the resale value when sold after one year of use, when sold after two years of use, and when sold after three years of use are compared. This allows us to obtain how much the resale value decreases from one year to two years later, and how much further it decreases after another year. In other words, the rate of decrease in resale value due to age is obtained.

[0082] Furthermore, it is possible to determine how much the resale value of a uniquely identified component decreases over time since its release date. To explain in detail, for example, the resale value of component parts with the same number of years of use can be obtained at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years after the release date. By comparing these, the rate of decrease in resale value over time since the release date can be obtained.

[0083] Then, information regarding the sale price of the components at a predetermined point in time (for example, the present time or the closest recorded past point in time) is obtained, and a predicted value for future sale prices is calculated based on the obtained sale prices. In other words, a predicted value for future sale prices is calculated based on the obtained sale prices and the rate of decrease in sale prices described above.

[0084] The "power generation prediction operation" is an operation that predicts the amount of power that the solar power generation system 25 will generate in the future if it continues to operate. Specifically, it predicts the amount of power that the solar power generation system 25 will generate over a predetermined period in the future (hereinafter also referred to as the second predetermined period). The second predetermined period can be changed as appropriate, and if the second predetermined period is set to one year, the "power generation prediction operation" is an operation that predicts the amount of power that the solar power generation system 25 will generate over a period of one year from the date of execution or a predetermined date.

[0085] Specifically, as described above, Server 2 functions as the power generation prediction unit 11 by reading and executing the program. The power generation prediction unit 11 then acquires system specification information (or information regarding the specifications of each component) recorded in Database 8. Based on the acquired information, it calculates the amount of power generated for a second predetermined period. That is, it identifies the output of the solar power generation system 25 from the acquired information and calculates the amount of power generated when the solar power generation system 25 is operated for a second predetermined period (for example, one year).

[0086] The "power generation forecasting operation" may also be an operation that predicts future power generation based on past performance values ​​(measured values). This will be explained using the example where the second predetermined period is one year. For example, the amount of electricity generated by the same solar power generation system 25 over a predetermined period in the past (e.g., the past 5 years) is obtained, and the amount of electricity generated per year (the second predetermined period) is calculated. For example, if the total amount of electricity generated over the past 5 years (the predetermined period) is XX kWh, then XX / 5 kWh will be the amount of electricity generated per year (the second predetermined period). Here, we have given an example where the predetermined period is longer than the second predetermined period, but of course, the predetermined period can be shorter than the second predetermined period. For example, if the total amount of electricity generated over the past six months is △△ kWh, then △△ × 2 kWh will be the amount of electricity generated per year. Then, the calculated annual power generation amount is used as the predicted annual power generation amount for the future.

[0087] In this case, future power generation may be predicted not only based on the past power generation performance of the same solar power generation system 25, but also based on the performance of other solar power generation systems 25 with similar configurations and installation environment. Furthermore, when recording information about the solar power generation system 25 in the database 8, similar solar power generation systems 25 may be associated with each other and recorded in the database 8.

[0088] The "power generation prediction operation" may also be an operation that predicts the amount of power generated by taking into account the degradation of the solar cell module 30 due to aging. When factoring in age-related degradation, for example, by comparing the amount of power generated for predetermined periods (e.g., one year) over the past several years for the same or similar solar power generation system 25, information indicating how much the amount of power generated decreases with each predetermined period (information indicating the rate of decrease in power generation) is obtained. Then, based on the current date and the start date of the second predetermined period, the amount of power generated up to the start of the second predetermined period is identified. Furthermore, the amount of power generated from the start to the end of the second predetermined period is identified. Then, as described above, when calculating the amount of power generated for the second predetermined period based on the system specification information (or information regarding the specifications of each component), the calculated amount of power generated is corrected based on the acquired information indicating the rate of decrease in power generation.

[0089] The "economic value conversion operation" is an operation that converts the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system 25 into monetary value if the solar power generation system 25 is operated continuously. When this "economic value conversion operation" is executed, the server 2 reads and executes the program, and the server 2 functions as the conversion unit 12. Specifically, the "power generation prediction operation" described above is performed to calculate a predicted value for the amount of power that the solar power generation system 25 will generate in the future. Then, the conversion unit 12 obtains "information on the power selling company" and obtains the selling price per unit of generated electricity. Then, the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system 25 is converted into a power generation amount from the amount of power to be generated in the future and the selling price per unit of generated electricity. In other words, the amount of money that can be expected to be earned in the future from the power generation of the solar power generation system 25 over one year (the second predetermined period) is calculated as XX yen.

[0090] In the example above, the explanation was given assuming that the currency unit used to calculate the amount was "yen," but naturally, the currency unit used to calculate the amount is not limited to this. The currency unit in this case can be changed as appropriate, and any unit that represents the amount of a given currency is acceptable. Furthermore, the given currency may be legal tender issued by a country or its central bank, such as yen or dollars, or it may be cryptocurrency, or it may be points or currencies used independently by various companies. It is sufficient that the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system 25 can be converted into monetary value. This is also true for other operations that convert economic value into monetary value, such as the "loss conversion operation" described later.

[0091] In the "Expansion Proposal Operation," an expansion location determination operation is performed to determine whether or not there is an installation location (expansion location) for installing (expanding) the solar power generation system 25 near the installation location of the solar power generation system 25 operated by the user. Then, if an installation location is found as a result of the expansion location determination operation, a proposal operation is performed to propose to the user the expansion of the solar power generation system 25 that they operate.

[0092] In the expansion location determination operation, Server 2 refers to Database 8 to obtain information about the solar power generation system 25 operated by the user and information about the lessor. Then, it determines whether there is an installation location available for the user to lease within a predetermined range (for example, within a 5km radius) from the installation location of the solar power generation system 25 operated by the user. That is, it determines the existence of an installation location (expansion location) within the predetermined range based on information about the address of the installation location of the solar power generation system 25 operated by the user and information about the addresses of available installation locations (expansion locations). At this time, map information stored in Server 2, etc. (or obtained from other devices on Network 4) may also be referred to.

[0093] The proposal operation performed in the expansion proposal operation (a proposal operation that proposes to the user the expansion of the solar power generation system 25) may include an operation that displays a predetermined screen on the information display means of the terminal device 3. That is, the operation may include displaying a predetermined screen on the information display means and displaying a message such as "There is a roof nearby where solar modules can be installed, and you can borrow the roof" or "We recommend that you expand your solar power generation system." In other words, a message proposing expansion may be displayed. At this time, detailed information regarding the expansion (the amount required for lending, the area of ​​the expansion site, etc.) may also be displayed on the information display means. Furthermore, this proposal operation may be accompanied by an operation that outputs sound from the audio output device of the terminal device 3. In other words, the proposed operation is to cause the terminal device 3 to perform at least one of the following: displaying a predetermined screen or outputting audio, and the same applies to the other proposed operations described below.

[0094] The "Proposal to Buyer Action" is performed when there are other potential buyers for the electricity generated by the solar power generation system 25, in addition to the current buyer. The "Proposal to Buyer Action" then proposes a change of buyer if changing the buyer would result in a higher amount of money being earned from selling electricity.

[0095] Specifically, Server 2 refers to Database 8 and obtains information about the solar power generation system 25 operated by the user and "information about the power company that sells the electricity." Then, it performs a specific operation to identify the power companies to which the electricity generated by the solar power generation system 25 operated by the user can be sold. Next, if as a result of this specific operation there are multiple power companies to which the electricity can be sold, it obtains the per-unit selling price for each identified power company. Then, it performs a comparison operation to compare the per-unit selling price of the current power company with the per-unit selling price of other power companies that could potentially be buyers, and performs a determination operation to determine whether the per-unit selling price of the current power company is the highest. If, as a result of the determination, the per-unit selling price of the current power company is not the highest, it performs a proposal operation to suggest changing power companies. In this proposal operation, detailed information about the power company that sells the electricity (power company name, per-unit selling price before and after the change, etc.) may be displayed.

[0096] The "maintenance suggestion action" is an action that suggests removing dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30 when doing so would reduce future losses.

[0097] Specifically, when the maintenance suggestion operation is executed, Server 2 reads and executes a program, causing Server 2 to function as a conversion unit 12, a comparison unit 14, and a dirt prediction unit 15. The dirt prediction unit 15 then performs a dirt prediction operation to predict the decrease in power generation due to dirt on the solar cell module 30, and the conversion unit 12 performs a dirt loss conversion operation to convert the economic value lost due to the dirt on the solar cell module 30 into the amount of power generated. Furthermore, the comparison unit 14 performs a loss comparison operation to compare the loss amount calculated by the dirt loss conversion operation with the maintenance costs required to remove the dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30. If, as a result of the loss comparison operation, the loss can be reduced further by removing the dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30, then a suggestion operation is performed to propose to the user that they remove the dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30.

[0098] In the "dirt prediction operation," the dirt prediction unit 15 (server 2) refers to the database 8 to obtain system specification information and degradation performance information. It then identifies other solar power generation systems 25 that have a similar configuration and installation environment to the solar power generation system 25 for which dirt is to be predicted. For example, suppose a solar power generation system 25 used for predicting pollution is equipped with solar cell modules 30 manufactured by Company A and is installed next to a busy road. In this case, the system would identify the other solar power generation systems 25 that are equipped with solar cell modules 30 manufactured by Company A and are installed next to a busy road. Then, information is obtained on the degree of fouling associated with the aging of other identified solar power generation systems 25 and the corresponding decrease in power generation rate, and it is predicted that the solar power generation system 25 for which fouling is predicted will also become fouled and its power generation rate will decrease in a similar manner. For example, if the other solar power generation system 25 has a fouling rate of 50 percent after 5 years and its power generation decreases by 3 percent, then the solar power generation system 25 for which fouling is predicted will also have a power generation rate that decreases by 3 percent after 5 years.

[0099] In addition, in the specific operation to identify other solar power generation systems 25, if all the pre-set conditions are the same, it is determined that the configuration and installation environment are the same, and if the pre-set conditions are the same to a certain extent, it is determined that the configuration and installation environment are similar. The pre-set conditions referred to here include the type of solar cell module 30 adopted (identified by manufacturer name and model number), the type of region where the installation site is located (e.g., next to a busy road), and the location of the installation site (prefecture and city).

[0100] In other words, the "dirt prediction operation" is an operation that predicts the degree of decrease in power generation due to dirt in the solar power generation system 25 during a predetermined period (the fourth predetermined period). For example, if the predetermined period is several years (for example, 5 years from the start of operation or a specific point in time after the start of operation), the operation predicts that the power generation will decrease by XX percent after 2 years from the start of the period, and then decrease by another XX percent after another 2 years. In other words, it calculates predicted values ​​of information indicating the degree of decrease in power generation, such as the amount of decrease and the rate of decrease during the predetermined period.

[0101] In the "dirt loss conversion operation," the economic loss caused by the decrease in power generation due to dirt on the solar cell module 30 is calculated based on the results of the "dirt prediction operation." To explain in more detail, first, the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system 25 during a predetermined period (the fourth predetermined period) when the solar cell module 30 is free of dirt is calculated (hereinafter also referred to as the "dirt-free power generation amount"). In this calculation of the dirt-free power generation amount, similar to the "power generation prediction operation" described above, the output of the solar power generation system 25 is identified based on the system specification information, and the power generated when the solar power generation system 25 is operated for a predetermined period (the fourth predetermined period) is calculated. Furthermore, based on the results of the "dirt prediction operation," the amount of power generated during the same period (the fourth predetermined period) that incorporates the dirt on the solar cell module 30 (hereinafter also referred to as the amount of power generated with dirt) is calculated.

[0102] Then, based on the calculated power generation amount with and without dirt, the loss due to dirt on the surface of the solar cell module 30 is calculated. For example, the "economic value conversion operation" described above is performed based on the power generation amount with and without dirt. This allows the amount of money generated (power generation amount) to be calculated for both operation with and without dirt. By calculating the difference between these, the degree of decrease (loss) in the amount of money generated (power generation amount) is obtained. For example, if the amount of money generated over a predetermined period (e.g., one year) when operated without dirt is 80,000 yen, and the amount of money generated over the same period when operated with dirt is 72,000 yen, then a loss of 8,000 yen is incurred due to the dirt.

[0103] The "loss comparison operation" is an operation that compares the amount of loss caused by dirt on the surface of the solar cell module 30 with the maintenance costs required to remove the dirt, based on the results of the "dirt loss conversion operation". Specifically, prior to the "loss comparison operation", the comparison unit 14 refers to the database 8 and obtains operational cost information (removal cost information). Then, it compares the amount of loss calculated by the "dirt loss conversion operation" with the cost required to remove the dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30 (hereinafter also referred to as the removal cost). Furthermore, if there are multiple candidates for removal costs, for example, the cost of removal work may differ depending on the number of companies that can be contracted to perform the stain removal work (cleaning work). In this case, the lowest or highest amount among the candidates for removal costs may be used as the removal cost based on pre-set conditions.

[0104] Then, if the "loss comparison operation" results in a loss amount exceeding the removal cost, a proposed operation is executed that proposes removing the dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30. For example, if the loss amount is 8,000 yen and the removal cost is 5,000 yen, the system would perform a suggestion action to propose removing the stain. Furthermore, this proposed operation may display detailed information regarding the removal of fouling. Specifically, it may display information indicating a future decrease in power generation (information obtained based on the results of the fouling prediction operation and the fouling loss calculation operation), the name of the company that will perform the fouling removal, the company's contact information, and the cost required for fouling removal.

[0105] In the maintenance proposal operation described above, a fouling prediction operation was performed, and a fouling loss conversion operation was performed based on the fouling prediction operation. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and in the maintenance proposal operation, the fouling loss conversion operation and loss comparison operation may be performed without performing the fouling prediction operation. In this case, the amount of power generated with fouling may be obtained based on the actual values ​​(measured values) of the solar power generation system 25.

[0106] For example, based on performance data, information is obtained showing the changes in surface contamination of the solar cell modules 30 and the corresponding degree of decrease in power generation over a predetermined period (e.g., the past 5 years) for the same solar power generation system 25. Then, from the obtained information, the amount of power generated in the past when the same solar power generation system 25 had contamination on the surface of the solar cell modules 30 is obtained as "contaminated power generation". Furthermore, the amount of electricity generated during the same period (for example, the past 5 years) when the surface of the solar cell modules 30 of the solar power generation system 25 is free of dirt is calculated and obtained as the amount of electricity generated without dirt. Then, similar to the above, a dirt loss calculation operation, a loss comparison operation, and a suggestion operation that proposes removing dirt from the surface of the solar cell module 30 are performed. In this case, the suggestion operation may display a message such as, "You have currently incurred a loss of XX yen; we recommend removing the dirt."

[0107] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 of this embodiment is capable of performing the operation suggestion actions shown in Figure 4. These operation suggestion actions will be described in detail below.

[0108] This operational proposal action is an action that supports the operation of the solar power generation system 25, and more specifically, it is an action that proposes the most profitable (or most profitable) operation of the solar power generation system 25, which involves the sale of its component equipment. More specifically, when performing operational actions that involve the sale of component equipment, such as replacing or removing components, the system performs actions that suggest the most profitable timing for such actions.

[0109] The following explanation uses the example of an operation that proposes the most profitable replacement timing when replacing components of a solar power generation system 25.

[0110] The proposed operation in this embodiment is performed on the condition that new data is entered into database 8, as shown in Figure 4 (Yes in STEP 1). It is also performed on the condition that a predetermined period (a third predetermined period, six months in this embodiment) has elapsed since the last execution (Yes in STEP 2).

[0111] In other words, if new data is entered into database 8, for example, if the above-mentioned electricity sales destination information is updated and the sales price per unit changes, there is a high possibility that the most profitable exchange timing will change before and after the input (before and after the change in sales price). For this reason, in this embodiment, the operation suggestion operation is executed on the condition that new data has been entered into database 8. Furthermore, if a certain period of time has elapsed since the last execution of the operational suggestion operation, there is a high probability that the most profitable exchange timing will have changed. For this reason, in this embodiment, the operational suggestion operation is executed on the condition that a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the last execution of the operational suggestion operation. In addition, suggested operations are also actions that are executed when a user requests execution, such as when the user operates terminal device 3.

[0112] In the operation proposal operation, the amount of money that the user will ultimately receive (hereinafter referred to as the final amount) is calculated by operating the solar power generation system 25 over a predetermined period (the first predetermined period, hereinafter also referred to as the operation period). In detail, the system calculates the estimated final cost if the system operates without replacing any components during the operating period (STEP 3), and then calculates the estimated final cost if the system operates with components replaced at some point during the operating period (STEP 4). These two estimates are then compared (STEP 5), and if it is expected that the final cost will increase by replacing components during the operating period (if the answer is Yes in STEP 6), the system executes a suggestion action to propose a timing for replacing the components (STEP 7). This explanation describes an example where the operational period is set to 10 years, from the date of execution of the proposed operational action. The operational period may be a pre-set period, or it may be a period specified by the user through input operations on terminal device 3.

[0113] When the operation proposal operation is initiated, the first final cost prediction operation is performed to calculate the predicted final cost if the solar power generation system 25 is operated without replacing any of its components (hereinafter also referred to as the predicted cost without replacement) (STEP 3). In the first final amount prediction operation, the above-described power generation prediction operation and economic value conversion operation are performed to calculate the amount that can be obtained if the solar power generation system 25 is operated in its current configuration for the next 10 years (operation period). In other words, the predicted value of the amount of power generated over the next 10 years is calculated, and the predicted value of the amount of power generated is converted into a power generation amount to calculate the predicted amount of unreplaced equipment.

[0114] In this embodiment, the first final amount prediction operation calculates the estimated non-replacement amount by incorporating the operating costs (maintenance costs) of the solar power generation system 25 and the subsidies obtained from operating the solar power generation system 25. That is, the estimated non-replacement amount is calculated by subtracting the operating costs and adding the subsidies to the calculated power generation amount. For example, if maintenance is planned to be performed three times during the 10-year (operating period) and there are subsidies obtained from operation, the maintenance costs for the three times are subtracted and the amount of the subsidies is added.

[0115] Furthermore, if the electricity selling price is scheduled to change in the future, the projected amount of unexchanged electricity will be calculated taking into account the change in the electricity selling price. For example, if the electricity selling price is scheduled to change in 5 years, when performing the calculation of the amount of electricity generated as described above, the amount of electricity generated up to 5 years from now will be calculated based on the electricity selling price before the change, and the amount of electricity generated from 5 years to 10 years from now will be calculated based on the electricity selling price after the change. Then, these will be added together. Note that when taking into account the change in the electricity selling price, the amount of electricity generated as described above may also be calculated assuming that electricity is sold to the power company with the highest selling price at each stage of the 10-year period.

[0116] Next, a second final cost prediction operation is performed (STEP 4) to calculate the predicted final cost (hereinafter also referred to as the predicted cost at the time of replacement) if the components of the solar power generation system 25 are replaced at some point during the operating period. Furthermore, the second final price prediction operation does not necessarily have to be performed after the first final price prediction operation; it may be performed before the first final price prediction operation. In other words, the second final price prediction operation is an operation that is performed before or after the first final price prediction operation.

[0117] In the second final amount prediction operation, the predicted amount of money that the user will receive during the period from the start of the operating period until the replacement of the components (hereinafter also referred to as the pre-replacement period) is calculated. This predicted amount is the amount of money that the user is expected to receive by operating the solar power generation system 25 before the replacement of the components. Furthermore, an estimated amount of money that the user can earn during the period from the replacement of the components to the end of the operating period (hereinafter also referred to as the post-replacement period) is calculated. This estimated amount is the amount of money that the user is expected to earn by operating the solar power generation system 25 after the replacement of the components. In addition, an estimated amount of money can be obtained by selling the previous components (e.g., solar cell modules 30) that are no longer used due to the replacement. Then, the estimated amount at the time of replacement is calculated by adding together the estimated amount to be earned during the pre-replacement period, the estimated amount to be earned during the post-replacement period, and the sale price of the component equipment.

[0118] For example, if the components are to be replaced one year after the start of the operating period, then the estimated amount of money that users will receive from the start of the operating period to one year later is calculated, and then the estimated amount of money that users will receive from one year later to the end of the operating period is calculated. The predicted amount of money the user will receive is obtained by performing a power generation prediction operation and an economic value conversion operation, similar to the first final amount prediction operation described above, to calculate the amount of power generated, and then obtaining the predicted amount of power generated. In the second final amount prediction operation of this embodiment, similar to the first final amount prediction operation described above, the predicted amount at the time of exchange is obtained by incorporating operating costs, subsidies, and changes in the electricity selling price. Furthermore, the sale price of the components is obtained by performing the sale price prediction operation described above.

[0119] In this second final price prediction operation of this embodiment, the predicted price at the time of replacement is calculated for each of several cases where the replacement timing of the component equipment is set to a different point in time. For example, the estimated replacement cost is calculated for each of the following cases: when the components are replaced one year after the start of the operating period, when the components are replaced two years after the start of the operating period, and so on. In this case, the estimated replacement cost is calculated as the first estimated replacement cost, the second estimated replacement cost, and so on.

[0120] Next, a final price comparison operation is performed (STEP 5) which compares the unexchanged predicted amount calculated in the first final price prediction operation with the multiple exchange predicted amounts (first exchange predicted amount, second exchange predicted amount, ...) calculated in the second final price prediction operation. Then, if the final price comparison operation determines that any of the multiple predicted replacement costs are the largest (if the answer is Yes in STEP 6), the system executes a suggestion operation to propose a replacement timing for the constituent equipment (STEP 7). Finally, information regarding the results of each operation performed in the operational suggestion operation is recorded in database 8 as needed (STEP 8), and the operational suggestion operation is terminated.

[0121] In the suggestion action for proposing replacement timing, for example, if replacing the components one year from now (the time the action is executed) would result in the highest final amount the user receives, then the action will propose replacing the components one year from now and selling the old components. For example, this action might display a message such as, "Please replace your current solar modules with XX Company's XXXX-XXXX solar modules in one year and sell your current solar modules." Similarly, for example, if replacing the components two years from now would result in the highest final amount the user receives, we would propose replacing the components and selling the old components two years from now. In other words, we would notify the user of the timing for replacing the components that is expected to yield the greatest profit.

[0122] Furthermore, the above-described operation proposal action may be configured to execute an operation proposal action suggesting the discontinuation of operation if the final amount obtainable by the user would be highest if the operation of the solar power generation system 25 is discontinued at some point during the operation period and each component is sold at that time. In other words, an operation proposing the removal and sale of the component at a predetermined time (period) may be executed. In this case, for example, a message such as "Please discontinue the operation of the solar power generation system after X years and sell the solar cell modules" may be displayed.

[0123] In the example of the operational suggestion described above, we explained the case where there is only one type of component equipment to be replaced or removed, but it is also possible to target two or more types of components. In this case, for example, a message such as "In X years, replace the current solar modules with XX company's XXXX-XXXX solar modules and replace the current power conditioner with OO company's OOOO-OOOO power conditioner" may be displayed.

[0124] In the example of the operation proposal operation described above, when calculating the estimated amount of money that can be obtained by operating the solar power generation system 25 for a predetermined period during the operation period, changes in operating costs, subsidies, and electricity sales prices were taken into account. In this case, information regarding the incorporated changes in operating costs, subsidies, and electricity sales prices may be displayed when the proposal operation (STEP 7 operation) that suggests the timing of replacement of the component equipment is executed. For example, in addition to the message that encourages (suggests) the replacement and sale of the component equipment (solar modules) described above, messages such as "Please apply for subsidy program A by XX" or "Please change the power company to which you sell electricity after X years" may be displayed. In other words, an operation that suggests applying for a predetermined subsidy program or an operation that suggests changing the power company may be performed.

[0125] In the proposed operation described above, when calculating the estimated amount of money to be obtained by operating the solar power generation system 25 during a predetermined period within the operation period, the reduction in power generation due to dirt on the surface of the solar cell modules 30 and the cost of removing the dirt may be taken into account in the calculation. In this case, information regarding surface contamination of the solar cell module 30 may be displayed when the suggestion operation (operation in STEP 7) that suggests when to replace the components is performed. For example, in addition to the message mentioned above, a message such as "Please clean (maintain) the solar cell module after X years and after Y years" may be displayed.

[0126] In the operation proposal operation described above, when calculating the estimated amount of money to be obtained by operating the solar power generation system 25 for a predetermined period during the operation period, the calculation may take into account the possibility of adding more solar power generation systems 25. In this case, information regarding the addition of more solar power generation systems 25 may be displayed when the proposal operation (operation in STEP 7) that suggests the timing of replacement of the components is executed. For example, in addition to the message described above, a message such as "Please rent a roof where solar modules can be installed in X years and add XX solar modules of model XXXX-XXXX manufactured by XX company" may be displayed.

[0127] In the embodiment described above, an example was described in which the database 8 is stored in the storage device (auxiliary storage unit) of the server 2. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The server in the information processing system 1 described above may be composed of two or more separately provided devices. For example, the server 2 described above and an external storage means (network HDD) may be connected via the network 4 and function as a server. In this case, the database 8 may be stored in the external storage means instead of the server 2. That is, a control device including a CPU and a storage device may be provided separately. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0128] 1. Information Processing System 8 Databases 10 Sales Amount Forecast Section 11 Power generation forecasting section 12 Conversion section 13 Calculation Section 14. Comparison Section 15. Dirt prediction section 25 Solar power generation systems 30. Solar cell modules (components) 31. Mounting components (component equipment) 32. Junction box (configuration equipment) 33. Power Conditioner (Component) 34 Distribution board (components) 35 Electric energy meter (component equipment) 36. Storage battery (comprises the machine)

Claims

1. An information processing system that converts the value of a solar power generation system into monetary terms, The system includes a sales price prediction unit that predicts the sales price obtained by selling the components constituting the solar power generation system during a first predetermined period, based on market information. Based on the sales price predicted by the sales price prediction unit, the system notifies the user of the timing at which the profits obtained from taking operational actions involving the sale of the component equipment will be higher. A power generation prediction unit predicts the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system during a second predetermined period, based on information including one or more pieces of information relating to the specifications of the components and the power generation performance of the solar power generation system formed including the components. Based on the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit, a conversion unit converts the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period into monetary value of power generation, The system further comprises a calculation unit that calculates an estimated value of the amount of money to be obtained from the operation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period, based on the amount of electricity generated and the amount of sales. A database that records one or more of the following: information regarding the installation location and specifications of the solar power generation system; information regarding the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit; information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit; and information regarding the sale price. The system further includes a comparison unit that compares predicted amounts of money obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components, based on the information recorded in the database. Based on the comparison results by the comparison unit, if a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the component equipment during the first predetermined period, the replacement of the component equipment is proposed. The aforementioned database further records information about lessors who are available to rent out their roofs. An information processing system that, based on information recorded in the database, determines whether the lessor is located within a predetermined range from the installation location of the solar power generation system, and proposes the expansion of the solar power generation system if the lessor is located there.

2. An information processing system that converts the value of a solar power generation system into monetary terms, The system includes a sales price prediction unit that predicts the sales price obtained by selling the components constituting the solar power generation system during a first predetermined period, based on market information. Based on the sales price predicted by the sales price prediction unit, the system notifies the user of the timing at which the profits obtained from taking operational actions involving the sale of the component equipment will be higher. A power generation prediction unit predicts the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system during a second predetermined period, based on information including one or more pieces of information relating to the specifications of the components and the power generation performance of the solar power generation system formed including the components. Based on the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit, a conversion unit converts the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period into monetary value of power generation, The system further comprises a calculation unit that calculates an estimated value of the amount of money to be obtained from the operation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period, based on the amount of electricity generated and the amount of sales. A database that records one or more of the following: information regarding the installation location and specifications of the solar power generation system; information regarding the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit; information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit; and information regarding the sale price. The system further includes a comparison unit that compares predicted amounts of money obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components, based on the information recorded in the database. Based on the comparison results by the comparison unit, if a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the component equipment during the first predetermined period, the replacement of the component equipment is proposed. The aforementioned database further records information regarding subsidy programs for solar power generation, information regarding lessors who can lease out their roofs, and information regarding power companies that sell the electricity generated by the solar power generation system. An information processing system that, on the condition that new data is recorded in the aforementioned database, performs an operation including one or more of the following (1) to (7). (1) The operation of the sales price prediction unit to predict the sales price, (2) Operation of the power generation prediction unit to predict the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system, (3) The comparison unit performs an operation to compare the predicted amount of money that can be obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components. (4) An operation to propose the replacement of the component if, as a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the component during the first predetermined period, (5) Based on the information recorded in the database, if a new subsidy can be obtained by replacing and / or adding the components to the solar power generation system, calculate the estimated amount that can be obtained including the said subsidy, and if it is predicted that a larger amount can be obtained compared to not replacing and / or adding the components, perform an action to propose replacing and / or adding the components. (6) Based on the information recorded in the database, determine whether the lessor is located within a predetermined range from the installation location of the solar power generation system, and if the lessor is located there, perform an action to propose the addition of the solar power generation system. (7) Based on the information recorded in the database, compare the electricity purchase prices of the electricity selling companies and, if there is an electricity selling company that offers a higher electricity purchase price than the electricity selling company currently selling electricity, propose switching to the electricity selling company.

3. An information processing system that converts the value of a solar power generation system into monetary terms, The system includes a sales price prediction unit that predicts the sales price obtained by selling the components constituting the solar power generation system during a first predetermined period, based on market information. Based on the sales price predicted by the sales price prediction unit, the system notifies the user of the timing at which the profits obtained from taking operational actions involving the sale of the component equipment will be higher. A power generation prediction unit predicts the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system during a second predetermined period, based on information including one or more pieces of information relating to the specifications of the components and the power generation performance of the solar power generation system formed including the components. Based on the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit, a conversion unit converts the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period into monetary value of power generation, The system further comprises a calculation unit that calculates an estimated value of the amount of money to be obtained from the operation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period, based on the amount of electricity generated and the amount of sales. A database that records one or more of the following: information regarding the installation location and specifications of the solar power generation system; information regarding the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit; information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit; and information regarding the sale price. The system further includes a comparison unit that compares predicted amounts of money obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components, based on the information recorded in the database. Based on the comparison results by the comparison unit, if a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the component equipment during the first predetermined period, the replacement of the component equipment is proposed. The aforementioned database further records information regarding subsidy programs for solar power generation, information regarding lessors who can lease out their roofs, and information regarding power companies that sell the electricity generated by the solar power generation system. An information processing system that, on the condition that a third predetermined period has elapsed, performs an operation including one or more of the following (1) to (7). (1) The operation of the sales price prediction unit to predict the sales price, (2) Operation of the power generation prediction unit to predict the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system, (3) The comparison unit performs an operation to compare the predicted amount of money that can be obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components. (4) An operation to propose the replacement of the component if, as a result of the comparison by the comparison unit, a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the component during the first predetermined period, (5) Based on the information recorded in the database, if a new subsidy can be obtained by replacing and / or adding the components to the solar power generation system, calculate the estimated amount that can be obtained including the said subsidy, and if it is predicted that a larger amount can be obtained compared to not replacing and / or adding the components, perform an action to propose replacing and / or adding the components. (6) Based on the information recorded in the database, determine whether the lessor is located within a predetermined range from the installation location of the solar power generation system, and if the lessor is located there, perform an action to propose the addition of the solar power generation system. (7) Based on the information recorded in the database, compare the electricity purchase prices of the electricity selling companies and, if there is an electricity selling company that offers a higher electricity purchase price than the electricity selling company currently selling electricity, propose switching to the electricity selling company.

4. An information processing system that converts the value of a solar power generation system into monetary terms, The system includes a sales price prediction unit that predicts the sales price obtained by selling the components constituting the solar power generation system during a first predetermined period, based on market information. Based on the sales price predicted by the sales price prediction unit, the system notifies the user of the timing at which the profits obtained from taking operational actions involving the sale of the component equipment will be higher. A power generation prediction unit predicts the amount of power generated by the solar power generation system during a second predetermined period, based on information including one or more pieces of information relating to the specifications of the components and the power generation performance of the solar power generation system formed including the components. Based on the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit, a conversion unit converts the economic value obtained from the power generation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period into monetary value of power generation, The system further comprises a calculation unit that calculates an estimated value of the amount of money to be obtained from the operation of the solar power generation system during the second predetermined period, based on the amount of electricity generated and the amount of sales. A database that records one or more of the following: information regarding the installation location and specifications of the solar power generation system; information regarding the amount of power generated predicted by the power generation prediction unit; information regarding the amount converted by the conversion unit; and information regarding the sale price. The system further includes a comparison unit that compares predicted amounts of money obtained when the solar power generation system is operated with the components replaced and when it is operated without replacing the components, based on the information recorded in the database. Based on the comparison results by the comparison unit, if a larger amount of money can be obtained by replacing the component equipment during the first predetermined period, the replacement of the component equipment is proposed. The aforementioned solar power generation system has a solar power generation module as one of its components, The system further includes a dirt prediction unit that predicts a decrease in power generation due to dirt on the surface of the solar power generation module during a fourth predetermined period, The database further records one or more of the following: information regarding the decrease in power generation predicted by the dirt prediction unit; information regarding the actual decrease in power generation due to dirt on the surface of the solar power generation module; and information regarding the removal cost when removing the dirt from the surface of the solar power generation module. Based on the prediction results from the aforementioned fouling prediction unit, or based on the actual values ​​of the decrease in power generation due to fouling on the surface of the solar power generation module, the economic value loss due to fouling on the surface of the solar power generation module is converted into a fouling loss amount. An information processing system that compares the amount of loss due to contamination with the cost of removal, and proposes removing the contamination from the surface of the solar power generation module if doing so would reduce the loss of economic value.

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