FTC Solar says its SunDAT and SunDAT Web Service solar design automation solutions are now integrated with PV Bid and SunFig to include project cost estimation and project financial returns, enabling users to perform a complete economic optimization of their projects.
Starting with only a ground or rooftop boundary, the SunDAT Web Service can model combinations of design parameters – module/inverter types, ground coverage ratio, string size, tracking vs. fixed-tilt, azimuth and more – producing complete site layouts and energy estimates in minutes. Now combined with PV Bid, each iteration of design can be independently costed, providing direct visibility into the economics of each configuration. With the ability to connect technical site design, energy estimation, and cost, SunDAT users can quickly see which option produces the best LCOE, IRR and NPV.
The SunDAT Web Service is based on SunDAT, FTC Solar’s proprietary solar design automation software, which enables automated design and optimization of photovoltaic systems. Featuring unlimited project size, advanced topographic analysis capability, and comprehensive DC electrical design, SunDAT and the SunDAT Web Service generate 3D designs that can be analyzed, manipulated and ultimately optimized.
Additionally, the SunDAT Web Service can be used for site prospecting and selection, for modeling single-axis tracker shading on terrain, and for any complex task where parallel processing can be leveraged to achieve more optimal designs.
