---
title: What are production estimates?
description: Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) are typically based on actual energy production. However, some state programs allow SRECs to be issued using production estimates instead. Systems using production estimates do not need to report actual energy production.
---
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# What are production estimates?
## Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) are typically based on actual energy production. However, some state programs allow SRECs to be issued using production estimates instead. Systems using production estimates do not need to report actual energy production.
#### **Which systems are eligible for production estimates?**
Only certain systems are eligible to use production estimates.
Production estimates are currently available for **specific systems** in:
- **Maryland**
- **Washington, DC**
Eligibility is determined by **state program rules**.
#### **How are production estimates calculated?**
Production estimates are calculated by a **grid operator**, such as **PJM’s Generation Attribute Tracking System (GATS)**, using modeling tools like **PVWatts**.
Estimates are based on system characteristics, including:
- System capacity (watts) and number of panels
- Panel tilt
- Panel azimuth (orientation)
- System location (latitude)
#### **Can production estimates be turned off?**
Yes, in some cases.
While production estimates are generally accurate, a system may be converted to **actual production reporting** if estimates are consistently **undercounting SRECs**.
#### **Can production estimates be turned on?**
No. If your system is fully registered and **not set up for production estimates**, it must continue to report **actual energy production** through:
- Self-reporting, or
- Remote monitoring
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