DNV GL has developed software for modelling, design and analysis of solar photovoltaic (PV) plants that can accurately and efficiently handle the demands of layouts in increasingly complex terrain. ‘SolarFarmer’ software offers a new and efficient ways to explore and optimize PV project development. Image: DNV GL

DNV GL has developed software for modelling, design and analysis of solar photovoltaic (PV) plants that can accurately and efficiently handle the demands of layouts in increasingly complex terrain. ‘SolarFarmer’ software offers a new and efficient ways to explore and optimize PV project development.

Problem

As the demand for solar energy increases, solar plant design are becoming more challenging as the terrain becomes more complex. This will require PV plant design software that can perform more reliable modelling for accurate energy calculations and submodule electrical mismatch.

Solution

SolarFarmer software provides unique models designed by engineers based on decades of engineering experience in the solar industry. SolarFarmer can be used for conceptual and detailed design and analysis for solar PV plants. It combines thoroughly validated PV simulation algorithms with a user-friendly, modern user interface allowing quick configuration of PV plant designs and simulation of PV layouts. SolarFarmer is an efficient and traceable method for modelling in complex terrain including DNV GL’s model for submodule electrical mismatch.

Applications

Design and analysis of development of solar PV plants, from conceptual model to detailed solar plant design.

Platform

SolarFarmer software combines thoroughly validated PV simulation algorithms with a user-friendly, modern user interface allowing quick configuration of PV plant designs and simulation of PV layouts. The PV plant design software has a full 3D shading and calculation model, submodule electrical mismatch and enables sub-hourly energy assessments compared with hourly energy assessment that can lead to errors such underestimating inverter clipping losses during cloud coverage.

Availability

May 2019, onwards.