How to setup a PPA in Molecule

Updated by Ken Maranian

Overview

Molecule supports multi-decade long PPAs at scale so you won't need to rely on slow, error-prone, inflexible spreadsheets or rigid trade valuation models. It enables users to forecast and value PPAs at the hourly level. The feature seamlessly  integrates asset-level modeling with MTM (mark-to-market), cash flows, and contract terms, handling  fixed or formula-based pricing structures.

Setting up a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Molecule is fast and straightforward, thanks to our guided onboarding and support from your Customer Success manager. This article will walk you through what’s needed, who does what, and how to keep your PPA data up to date in the platform.

Who Does What?

  • Molecule CS Team
    • Handles all setup steps in the platform, including product and trade configuration.
  • User
    • Provide the required forecast and price data.
    • Once setup is complete, you upload updated forecasts or price data as needed.

  • What Do I Need to Provide?

To set up your PPA, please provide the following:

  • Asset Forecast Data
    • What: Hourly expected generation volumes (e.g., 80% of the asset’s expected output for every hour in the contract)
    • Format: a CSV or Excel file with columns for Asset ID, Date/Time (hourly), and Volume (MWh)
  • Price/Mark Data
    • What: Hourly forward prices (as granular as available for the contract; flat or scenario-based prices for years without market data)
    • Format: CSV or Excel file with columns for Product/Curve, Date/Time (hourly), and Price ($/MWh)

How Does the Setup Work?

  1. You'll send your initial forecast and mark data to Molecule.
  2. Molecule’s Customer Success team will...
    1. Configure all required products and trade structures
    2. Upload your initial forecast and price data
    3. Book the PPA trade and validate all calculations
  3. You’ll be notified once your PPA is live and ready for use.

What Happens Next?

  • Ongoing Updates: You can upload new forecasts or price curves at any time, using our easy upload templates. Molecule will automatically update all valuations, positions, and reports using your new data.
  • Valuations and Reporting: You have access to live, accurate PPA analytics. As forecasts or prices change, your reports and dashboards update automatically—no manual intervention needed.

FAQ

Q: What if I don’t have full hourly price curves for the whole contract?

A: That’s normal! Use detailed data for the near-term (1–5 years), and provide flat, scenario-based, or assumed prices for the out-years. You can always update your data later as new information becomes available.

Q: How do I upload updated data?

A: Use the provided templates for forecasts and marks. Go to the upload page in Molecule, select your file, and follow the on-screen prompts. If you need help, contact your CSM.

Q: What file formats do you accept?

A: CSV and Excel (.xlsx) are supported for most uploads.

Q: What if I want to model changes to my asset (like an expansion or derate)?

A: Simply upload an updated forecast file reflecting the changes. Molecule will recalculate all affected valuations automatically.

Need Help?

Your CS manager is ready to help with data formatting, uploads, or any questions about your PPA setup. Contact support at support@molecule.io.

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