SolarFarmer User Guide
Introduction
SolarFarmer is DNV’s Solar PV modelling software. It combines thoroughly-validated PV simulation algorithms with a modern, attractive and efficient user interface allowing quick configuration of designs and detailed simulation of PV layouts. This is a user guide to help you get started with using the SolarFarmer application.
Getting Started
Check out the Validation section with links to papers that demonstrate the accuracy of the SolarFarmer simulations versus operational data. The Results summary is updated with each release.
Read the Installation and System Requirements first to avoid problems. Make sure you visit the SolarFarmer Web Service and copy your API access token to an environment variable called
SF_API_KEY
to take advantage of cloud computing power.Then skim the General UI Principles to get a feel for the layout of SolarFarmer.
Once you're up and running, work through The Meadowbrook Tutorial to get a hands on example of how to build and simulate a PV array.
Got questions about how the energy and losses are calculated at each step? Scrutinize The SolarFarmer Calculation Reference to get the full details.
Ready to take your modeling to the next step? Level up with the API and Scripting Documentation and unlock SolarFarmer's hidden power.
Good luck! Happy PV modeling.