Application Notes/Articles

Shade Measurements and PV Design


Mit einer Verschattungsanalyse in PV*SOL Expert Photovoltaikerträge sicherer prognostizierenAutor: Carsten Bleske, Dr. Valentin EnergieSoftware GmbH, 2009

Praxistest: Verschattungs-analyse mit dem SunEyeep Photovoltaik, 1/2-2009

Praxis:SunEye SolmetricPhoton, 11/2008

SunEye - Verschattungen fix analysiertPhotovoltaik, 7/2008

SunEye - analysiert Vershattung auf dem DachPhoton, März 2008

Best Practices for SunEye210 Shade Measurements Accurate estimates for solar production require accurate shade measurements. Getting accurate and consistent shade measurements requires the right tools and the right process for data collection and reporting. This document is intended to describe best practices in the measurement of shade, and to facilitate a common approach within an organization and across multiple organizations. It includes details about using the user interface of the SunEye-210 as well as the process for how and where to make the measurements on site.

Residential Solar Site Measurements: New DevelopmentsSolarPro Magazine, April/May 2012: This article addresses recent developments and trends in residential solar site measurements, including tools and best practices for measuring roof dimensions and shade, estimating system performance, and evaluating the impact of solar leasing options and performance guarantees on site measurement approaches.

Using Solmetric SunEye results in California's solar electric incentive programs This application note describes the details of how to extract the SunEye data and input it to either the CSI Calculator or the NSHP Calculator. The Solmetric SunEye measures both solar access and obstruction elevation angles so it provides the data necessary for either calculator.

Understanding orientation issues in solar site analysisThe Solmetric SunEye provides complete solar access and shade analysis in an integrated hand-held tool that can help optimize solar panel system design and installation. This note describes how to measure and account for orientation when using the SunEye.

Understanding the Solmetric SunEyeA basic introduction to solar access and shade measurements using the Solmetric SunEye. Also included are descriptions of new features for measuring on metal roofs and with an extension kit.

Solar Site Evaluation: Tools and Techniques to Quantify and Optimize Production.Solar Pro Magazine, November 2008: Improve system performance and energy harvest projections with a thorough site evaluation that includes shading analysis and insolation quantification.

Align with Compass / Align with TargetThe normal way of aligning the SunEye is to align it using the compass to point South. "Align with Target" mode provides an alternative alignment to a reference azimuth using other visual information available at the site.

I-V Curves and Performance Verification


Winning PV Contracts with I-V Curve Testing Performance testing tools and processes can be a differentiating factor for PV integrators and can communicate expectations of quality to suppliers and customers. This white paper provides language that you can use to your advantage in your proposals, including 1) a description of the business benefits of I-V curve tracing, and 2) contractual language specifying the use of I-V curve tracing.

Field Applications of I-V Curve Tracers While indispensible to PV cell and module manufacturing processes, I-V curve tracers have historically held a limited role in the field. Now that the technology is more widely accessible, the role of curve tracers is expanding beyond the laboratory and into field commissioning and maintenance. This article provides an overview of the solutions and techniques.

I-V Curve Tracing Exercises for the PV Training Lab This Application Note describes a series of outdoor PV training lab exercises that use the I-V curve tracer to show how PV arrays really work and how to troubleshoot problems down to the level of the individual PV module.

Guide to Interpreting I-V Curves Background on DC measurement techniques for testing I-V Curves of PV modules, strings, and arrays. Includes a description of ideal performance and effects of impairments, such as shading, series resistance, loose connections, etc. Also includes description of models that predict performance and comparison to measured results.

Photovoltaic Energy ProductionIntroduction to photovoltaic systems and measurements. Shade and solar access for site assessment, and system verification with IV curves acquired with a Performance Analyzer.

Checklist for Preparing to Test PV Arrays PV arrays can be tested very efficiently if the right preparations are in place. This checklist can help you get the most out of your time in the field.

"SunEye News" updates and user tips