diff --git a/hercules/python_simulators/solar_pysam.py b/hercules/python_simulators/solar_pysam.py
index 58c17529..c25cdb50 100644
--- a/hercules/python_simulators/solar_pysam.py
+++ b/hercules/python_simulators/solar_pysam.py
@@ -196,6 +196,8 @@ def step(self, inputs):
         elif "external_signals" in inputs.keys():
             if "solar_power_reference_mw" in inputs["external_signals"].keys():
                 P_setpoint = inputs["external_signals"]["solar_power_reference_mw"]
+            else:
+                P_setpoint = None
         else:
             P_setpoint = None
         self.control(P_setpoint)