Why Domelec Loves Using PV Sol To Design Your Solar Projects

Designing Solar Systems in PV*Sol: A Step-by-Step Guide for Smart Energy Planning

As the world pivots toward sustainable energy, solar power has become a cornerstone of the green revolution. For engineers, architects, and energy consultants, designing efficient photovoltaic (PV) systems is both an art and a science. That’s where PV*Sol comes in—a powerful simulation software that helps Domelec model, analyse, and optimise solar installations with precision.

Whether you're working on a residential rooftop or a sprawling commercial array, PV Sol does the job for us.

Step 1: Define Your Project Parameters

Before diving into the design, we start by setting up the project basics by working closely with our customers:

• Location: Input the geographic location to access accurate solar irradiance data, working with our customers to design their optimum system

• System Type: Choose between grid-tied, off-grid, or hybrid systems.

• Consumption Profile: Add load profiles to simulate energy demand and match it with solar generation.

This foundational data ensures your simulation reflects real-world conditions.

Step 2: Create or Import a 3D Model

PV*Sol’s 3D visualisation engine is a game-changer:

• Draw the building using built-in tools or import CAD files.

• Add roof structures, shading elements (trees, chimneys, neighbouring buildings), and terrain.

• Simulate shading throughout the year to identify optimal panel placement.

This step helps you avoid energy losses due to shading and improves system performance.

Step 3: Design the PV Array

Now the fun begins—laying out your solar panels:

• Select modules and inverters from PV*Sol’s extensive database.

• Configure strings and electrical connections.

• Optimise tilt and angles for maximum solar gain.

• Use auto-placement tools to speed up layout on complex roofs.

PV*Sol will automatically calculate system yield, losses, and performance ratios.

Step 4 : Run Simulations and Analyse Results

Once your system is designed, run detailed simulations:

• Energy yield: See how much electricity your system will produce monthly and annually.

• Performance ratio: Evaluate system efficiency.

• Financial analysis: Assess payback period, ROI, and savings.

• Environmental impact: Estimate CO₂ savings and carbon footprint reduction.

PV*Sol presents this data in easy-to-read graphs and reports, perfect for client presentations.

Step 5: Refine and Iterate

Design is rarely a one-and-done process. Use PV*Sol’s insights to:

• Adjust panel layout for better performance.

• Try different module types or inverter configurations.

• Add battery storage and simulate self-consumption.

• Explore alternative mounting systems or bifacial panels.

Each tweak helps you build a smarter, more resilient solar system.

Export Reports and Documentation

PV*Sol generates professional documentation:

• Technical reports for installers and engineers.

• Financial summaries for stakeholders.

• Visual renderings for marketing and client approval.

You can export these in various formats to support planning, permitting, and sales.

Why PV*Sol Stands Out

PV*Sol isn’t just a design tool—it’s a decision-making engine. Its ability to simulate real-world conditions, integrate financial modelling, and visualise complex systems makes it indispensable for solar professionals.

Whether you're designing a 5 kW rooftop system or a 500 kW commercial array, PV*Sol helps you do it smarter, faster, and with confidence.