In this document
You'll learn the two ways to add an array (to the reference point as a default 1MW square, or to a custom-drawn segment following its shape), how to prepare your site by planning single vs. multiple arrays and excluding restricted areas or prohibited zones, and how to use the array addition wizard to select the array type and connect it to an inverter and transformer.
Adding arrays to the project
There are two ways you can add an array to the project:
To the Reference Point - A squared area array of 1MW output will be placed on the map by default, with the reference point in the middle. You can change its default size/power output later in the array properties. The default square shape of the array can not be changed.
To a Segment - An array will be added to a custom-sized segment either on the ground or at the rooftop of a building copying its layout area. The system will calculate its power output automatically based on different criteria, such as PV module type or table spacing. You can create segments using the interactive 3D map.
Note: In both cases, you can change the power output of your array in the array settings.
Site preparation
Before you add an array to a project, you should determine how many arrays your installation will require:
A single array - the whole design will consist of a single array with one inverter setup connected to an inverter transformer.
Multiple arrays - the design will consist of two or more arrays connected to single/multiple inverter setups, connected to one or more inverter transformers.
Prepare your site segments based on the number of arrays you plan to install. Segment installation is the preferred way of adding arrays to the location. They can be custom-sized with the required shape to maximize space usage and installed capacity. You can prepare your site on the interactive 3D map or upload the layout as a KML file. Additionally, you can upload custom terrain profiles to enhance the elevation accuracy and simulation results.
If you do not need custom-sized segment and your array can cover a square area around the reference point, you can add your array to the reference point. You can add only one array to the reference point. Additional arrays must be added to segments.
Excluding restricted areas and prohibited zones
If the location includes any areas that cannot be covered with PV arrays, you can exclude them using restricted areas or restricted lines. These could be rock formations, wetlands, protected areas, or even maintenance paths and other safe zones. For rooftop arrays, these could be vent shafts, air condition units, or other roof obstacles.
These areas can be added to the design in two ways:
Adding arrays to your project
You can add arrays to the reference point or segment. Both will open an array addition wizard where you can adjust basic parameters and confirm the action.
Fixed-mount PV systems are enhanced with the terrain-following feature, where tables are intelligently placed on sloped ground, respecting the clearance and orientation of the modules. This allows for better modelling on mountains and uneven sites, getting simulations closer to the real-life scenario.
To the reference point
Navigate to the Site properties.
Click the "Add Array" button to initiate the array addition wizard.
To the segment
Select the segment to which you want to add an array.
Click the "Add Array" button to initiate the array addition wizard.
Note: Both ground and rooftop segments are created using the Interactive 3D map.
Tip: Once you have added arrays to all your segments, you can examine their power output and power segregation in the system properties. Total PV output can be viewed in the navigation menu.
The array addition wizard
The array addition wizard is identical for both ground and rooftop segments. The wizard indicates whether you are adding ground based or C&I rooftop array in the array selection section. The array addition wizard will open after clicking the “Add Array” button when you select any empty ground segment.
Select the type of array you want to add. You can change this later via array configuration.
Choose your inverter and the transformer to which it will be connected. You can leave it unchanged; a new inverter and transformer are selected by default.
Click “OK” to add the array.
Your array will be added to the reference point or segment, respectively, and you can start editing its parameters.
Tip: If you want to add arrays to multiple segments, repeat the steps for every segment. Details about how to configure your arrays are outlined in the Array configuration guide.