What this is Understanding why model calculations sometimes fail and how to fix them.
Who this is for Users who see errors when running the financial model or get unexpected results.
What you can do - Check input validation warnings before running - Review required fields for completeness - Understand what triggers calculation errors - Fix common data issues
Common issues and fixes
"Missing required fields" The model needs certain minimum inputs to calculate: - Country — Required for default assumptions - System size (kWp) — Required for generation calculations - At least one tariff value — Required for revenue projections - Project timeline — COD date and contract term
Fix: Complete all fields marked with asterisks ( ) before running.
"Invalid input values" Some inputs must be within reasonable ranges: - Tariff rates cannot be negative - System size must be positive - Percentages must be 0-100 - Dates must be in valid format
Fix: Check highlighted fields for validation errors and correct them.
"Calculation timeout" Very rarely, complex calculations may time out: - This usually resolves by trying again - If persistent, simplify inputs temporarily - Contact support if it continues
"IRR calculation failed" IRR requires both positive and negative cash flows: - Ensure CAPEX values are entered - Check that tariffs generate positive revenue - Verify the project term is long enough
Fix: Review cash flow assumptions to ensure the project has a valid financial structure.
Results show "N/A" or unexpected values - Check if all dependent fields are filled - Review warnings in the validation panel - Ensure financing terms are complete if debt is used
Rules and limits - Model runs typically complete in 2-5 seconds - Timeout occurs after 30 seconds - Some outputs require specific inputs to calculate
Common mistakes - Running the model with incomplete inputs - Ignoring validation warnings before running - Entering values in wrong units (e.g., $/MWh vs $/kWh)
Related articles - Inputs Guide: What Good Data Looks Like - Understanding Validation Warnings - How SolarQuant Calculates Outputs
--- Tip: Always review the validation summary before running the model. Yellow warnings are advisory; red errors must be fixed.