Pv*Sol Training

Lesson 1 • PV Component Database Basics

Introduces the built-in component library for modules, inverters, and batteries. Students learn to search, filter, and interpret component datasheets.

Lesson 2 • PV*SOL Software Overview

Introduces the PV*SOL interface, menu structure, and project workflow. Students gain orientation before building their first project.

Lesson 3 • Climate and Location Data Setup

Explains how to import and configure climate datasets and geographic coordinates. Accurate location data directly affects simulation reliability.

Lesson 1 • Selecting and Placing PV Modules

Guides module selection, string configuration, and placement on the roof plane. Students apply series-parallel wiring logic to meet voltage and power targets.

Lesson 2 • Defining the Project Site

Covers entering site address, orientation, and shading horizon data. Correct site definition ensures realistic irradiance calculations throughout the project.

Lesson 3 • Inverter Selection and Configuration

Covers matching inverter capacity to array output and configuring MPP tracker inputs. Proper inverter sizing prevents clipping and maximizes yield.

Lesson 1 • Adding Shading Objects

Covers placing trees, chimneys, neighboring buildings, and other obstructions. Each object type affects the shading simulation differently.

Lesson 2 • Module Placement in 3D View

Demonstrates placing and aligning module strings directly on 3D roof surfaces. Visual placement reduces layout errors compared to 2D-only workflows.

Lesson 3 • Shading Loss Quantification

Analyzes shading loss reports and identifies the most impactful obstructions. Students use this data to revise layouts and improve annual yield.

Lesson 4 • Optimizing Layout for Minimum Shading

Applies iterative layout adjustments to reduce shading losses below acceptable thresholds. Students balance available roof area against shading impact.

Lesson 1 • Demand-Side Optimization Strategies

Explores load shifting and appliance scheduling to increase self-consumption. Students apply these strategies within the simulation to compare outcomes.

Lesson 2 • Simulating Grid Feed-In and Draw

Models the interaction between PV generation, local consumption, and the grid. Students trace energy flows across a full annual simulation cycle.

Lesson 3 • Understanding Self-Consumption Metrics

Defines self-consumption rate and self-sufficiency ratio and explains their calculation. Students interpret these metrics to evaluate system economic value.

Lesson 1 • Grid Interaction with Storage

Models peak shaving, time-of-use optimization, and grid feed-in limits with storage active. Students understand how storage changes grid energy flows.

Lesson 2 • Battery Technology Overview

Compares lithium-ion, lead-acid, and emerging battery chemistries relevant to residential and commercial PV. Technology choice affects sizing and simulation parameters.

Lesson 3 • Simulating and Evaluating Storage Performance

Runs storage simulations and analyzes self-sufficiency gains, cycle counts, and degradation. Students compare storage scenarios to identify the best design.

Lesson 4 • Battery Sizing Methodology

Applies consumption and generation data to determine optimal storage capacity. Oversizing and undersizing trade-offs are quantified through simulation.

Lesson 1 • Generating the Financial Report

Produces and customizes the PV*SOL financial report for client delivery. Students format outputs to meet professional presentation standards.

Lesson 2 • Entering System Costs

Covers module, inverter, mounting, installation, and soft cost entry in PV*SOL. Complete cost data is required for accurate profitability calculations.

Lesson 3 • Sensitivity and Scenario Analysis

Tests how changes in energy price, yield, and cost assumptions affect financial outcomes. Sensitivity analysis reveals the most critical project risk factors.

Lesson 4 • Revenue and Incentive Configuration

Models feed-in tariffs, net metering credits, and applicable incentive structures. Revenue inputs directly determine payback period and net present value.

Lesson 1 • Hybrid and Off-Grid System Design

Configures hybrid inverter systems and fully off-grid PV installations with backup generation. Students size generators and batteries for reliable off-grid supply.

Lesson 2 • Ground-Mount and Tracker Systems

Models fixed-tilt ground-mount arrays and single-axis tracker systems in PV*SOL. Tracker simulations require specific irradiance and geometry settings.

Lesson 3 • Large Commercial Array Design

Scales design methods to commercial rooftop and ground-mount systems with multiple inverters. Students manage string grouping, combiner boxes, and DC cabling.

Lesson 4 • Carport and Facade Installations

Configures PV carport canopies and building-integrated facade systems in the 3D editor. Non-standard mounting angles require adjusted tilt and azimuth inputs.

Lesson 1 • Client Presentation Techniques

Translates simulation outputs into clear, non-technical client narratives. Students practice presenting yield, savings, and payback data persuasively.

Lesson 2 • Report Structure and Content

Reviews all available PV*SOL report sections and their purpose in a client proposal. Students select and sequence content appropriate to each project type.

Lesson 3 • Customizing Report Templates

Covers logo insertion, color schemes, cover page design, and custom text blocks. Branded reports reinforce professional credibility with clients.

Lesson 4 • Quality Assurance and Final Review

Applies a systematic checklist to verify simulation inputs, outputs, and report accuracy before delivery. QA prevents costly errors in submitted proposals.