DigiSolar – Digital Tools for Hybrid Solar Thermal Systems

The EU-funded DigiSolar project develops DS Suite, a unified digital platform that combines digital twin technology, AI-driven fault detection, supply and demand forecasting, model predictive control (MPC), and life cycle assessment (LCA). The DS Suite empowers planners, operators, and end-users with performance verification, predictive maintenance, and real-time energy optimization, to reduce risks and unlock large-scale solar thermal investments.

SPF is responsible for developing one of the core planning and modelling tools within the DS Suite, the pytrnsys-Suite, leveraging digital twins implemented in TRNSYS, while allowing planners to both investigate common systems, as well as develop their own systems. Additionally, SPF is responsible for implementing an MPC based on Optihood, a python-based framework to optimize the investment in different energy technologies.

Supported by a consortium of leading R&D institutions and industry partners—including technology providers, engineering firms, utilities, and digital solution experts—DS Suite will be validated at four European demonstration sites. The project strengthens Europe’s renewable energy leadership, accelerating hybrid solar thermal deployment across industrial and district heating sectors.

Timeline: The project started in September 2025 and it is planned to complete in August 2029.

Contact: Ignacio Gurruchaga