Array configuration

Setting up your arrays

You can configure each array in your system individually. Your arrays are listed under inverter setups in the main navigation menu/system design.  The settings are grouped into categories for easier navigation, and we will cover each of them separately.  

Things to know before you proceed:

• The array’s properties panel will show when you select it.

• The array’s general parameters information is at the top of the properties panel.  

• Most of the changes will affect the array’s total power output. Keep it in mind during the configuration.

• Arrays above 20MW will not have mounting displayed on the 3D map to enhance rendering speed and ensure a smoother experience. This restriction is solely visual and does not affect the simulation.

• If you change any default parameter, a “revert” button () will appear next to the value field. Use this button to revert to its default value if needed.

• Every change you make in the array setup will automatically be reflected in the design and shown on the 3D interactive map.

Array mounting setup

Fixed (adjustable) tilt & fixed tilt E/W mountings

1. Change the array’s mounting type.

2. Adjust default azimuth and tilt.

3. For fixed (adjustable) tilt, default effective azimuth and tilt are displayed. You can change those by clicking the link provided.

The standard azimuth and tilt refer to the fixed orientation angles of a solar panel relative to true north and the horizontal plane, respectively, while effective azimuth and tilt account for actual operational angles influenced by factors such as terrain slope, shading, or tracking systems.

1-axis horizontal NS tracker mounting

For this mounting type, the tilt setting is replaced with a rotation limits setting, where you can adjust the tracker’s default rotation limits and enable/disable backtracking.

Alignment parameters

Arrays installed to the reference point

1. Set the array’s desired size using installed power, size of the area, or PV module number.

2. Change the table distribution based on your preferences.

Arrays installed in a segment

1. Change the table distribution method. Maximum power (default) will add the maximum number of tables to the area, while the regular spacing method will geometrically align the arrays but result in lower total power output.

2. Select the required row alignment and examine its effect on the 3D map.

3. First row offset lets you set the distance of the first row from the south design boundary.

In both cases, changing the array mounting type will reset most array settings parameters, including PV module selection. You will find each array’s contribution to the whole system in this section.

Array spacing

1. Click the icon to learn about the different spacing methods and their relations. This setting refers to the spacing between rows.

2. Choose your preferred spacing method and adjust the value.

3. Adjust the default distance between tables (inter-table spacing) and clearance height (distance from the ground).

PV module selection

Our system adds a generic module to the array upon creation. Although generic modules cannot be used for Solargis performance reports, they still provide reliable results. In the module section, you can replace them with manufacturer-specific models from the PV Components catalog.

1. Click the “Change” button under the model parameter to open the PV Components catalog if you want to replace it.

2. Module information also contains a component confidence class to help you identify the reliability and accuracy of the selected model.

3. You can read more information about the component using the “More info” link.

Replacing the module

To replace the module, click the “Change” button. The PV Components catalog will open.

1. The PV components catalog provides numerous filters to narrow down the displayed results. You can choose between generic and manufacturer-specific components. If you have configured your own module in the catalog and the catalog is connected to your Evaluate account, you can find it in My components sub-section. Only validated components will be shown.

2. Select the module from the list.

3. The module’s details will be displayed in the properties panel to the right. Click the “Choose” button to add the component to the project.

If the module you want to use is not in the PV catalog and you have its technical specification details, go to pvcomponents.com and explore options for adding it.

String size settings

The string size settings will affect the general distribution of PV modules and overall layout of tables. The default string size is adapted to the selected inverter. To change it, switch to manual and enter the desired string size.

When changing the string size, adjust the table geometry settings simultaneously to achieve your desired result.

If you need to change the inverter type or any of its settings at this stage, use the Inverter setup link to navigate to inverter settings.

The string size change is particularly useful when system validation shows MMPT values over the limit. In this case, lowering string size should resolve the issue.

Table geometry settings

You can change module orientation, gaps between modules, their layout, or add fractional tables in table geometry section.

Changing these settings will directly affect total installed capacity. You can review your changes' impact at the top of properties panel, where array information is displayed.

1. Set your preferred module orientation and gaps.

2. Select the number of strings for a single table. The layout options will adjust based on your selection. Experiment with different layouts to see their impact on the system design.

3. Choose how to distribute strings on the tables based on your previous selection.

4. Our advanced algorithm determines if fractional tables can be constructed. If available, you can add them next (enabled by default). The string distribution options for each fractional table depend on your earlier choices.

Fractional tables let you use the space more effectively and produce more energy without expanding the design boundaries.

Array inverter connection

The electric layout section allows you to select the inverter setup for your chosen array. By default, a new inverter setup is created for each segment where an array is added.

For example, if you previously created two arrays with separate inverter setups, you can later connect them to the same inverter for easier maintenance.

1. Select inverter setup for array to be connected.

2. The array will dynamically move under selected inverter setup in main navigation panel.

You can simultaneously examine changes on 3D map. The connection indicator will tell you which inverter setup array is connected to.

Changing the inverter setup connection can be useful when, for instance, a road runs through your installation. You can create two segments with arrays on either side of the road and connect them to the same inverter and transformer setup.

Array options menu

Every array offers a quick options menu to manage its basic parameters. Available keyboard shortcuts are inside the parentheses:

• Rename (R) - will rename the array.

• Show/hide (H) - show/hide array boundaries on the interactive 3D map.

• Reconnect - change the array’s inverter setup connection.

• Set all to default - resets all array’s changed parameters to default.

• Delete (Del)- delete the array.

You can access the options menu using three-dot menu in Project inspector, in Properties panel, or via keyboard shortcuts.

Copying array configuration to other arrays

For convenience, we have introduced an array parameter transfer functionality that lets you apply array’s properties to other arrays in the design. This significantly speeds up the process of configuration when multiple arrays in the project are required to have the same parameters.

To apply array properties to other arrays in the project:

1. Select the array you want to transfer.

2. Click the three-dot menu in the properties panel.

3. Select “Apply properties to…(C)” from the list.

A list of available arrays will be shown. Select the arrays to which you want to apply properties and click “Apply.” The properties will be applied to the selected arrays.

Alternatively, you can use the “C” key to initiate the parameter transfer when an array is selected.