Valentin Energy Software, which specialises in turning the latest developments, in particular in solar technology, into user-friendly software programmes for solar simulation, system design, yield calculation and economic efficiency calculation, has launched an improved version of its popular PV*SOL software.
A crucial factor in calculating the yield of a PV system is the ability to give a true representation of the shade caused by buildings and other objects in the vicinity. PV*SOL Expert makes it possible to carry out a 3D visualization of photovoltaic (PV) systems with shade calculation based on 3D objects. The programme calculates the frequency distribution for roof area shading caused by the objects entered in the software. The results are shown in a graph, making it possible to reach a preliminary decision about the roof area to be covered. The visualization in 3D mode provides the user with vital information on the course of shade over a period of a day or a year.
The user can present their PV systems clearly and realistically, and systems with up to 2000 modules can be calculated. The PV modules are automatically positioned on the roof or façade. Objects that cause shading can be dragged and dropped around the screen. Chimneys, dormer windows, trees and buildings are available as standard objects in the database. Based on the objects entered, the programme calculates the frequency distribution of shade on the area to be covered. This means that the user is given valuable support in making a decision regarding the positioning of the PV array. The shade calculation determines the degree of shade for each module, dependent on the time of day. Following the subsequent PV*SOL simulation, the impact of the shade is calculated in respect of the modules and string configurations.
Shade calculation using PV*SOL Expert represents a substantial improvement on PV*SOL’s previous horizon-line based shade editor, as the new 3D method is no longer point-based, but area-based. This makes it possible, in addition to objects on the horizon, for objects within the PV area and mutual shading caused by the modules themselves to be included in the calculation. The yields simulated in PV*SOL Expert with the 3D visualization tool are therefore considerably more accurate, even for PV arrays with complicated shading problems.
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