MCS Guide to the installation of Photovoltaic systems (shading analysis)

[Moffy Red]

Hi all

Topic -- MCS Guide to the installation of Photovoltaic systems (shading analysis)

Just getting to grips with the code, Has anyone got the shade analysis tool sorted, I'm struggling to find some good app's for Androids tablets or a camera that dose not cost more than the earth.

Any ideas gratefully received

 

[SolarCity]

The new shading analysis is pathetic. I've surveryed a few jobs using this method and I've yet to visit a job where it's a feasible option. Is anyone else having a bit of a game with it?

It takes far too long, looks far too amateurish and is nowhere near as good as 3D modelling.

 

[Ian-LS]

Its basic at best which good companies should be looking at better methods. Any modelling software has got to be better than this method as long as the model and shading sources are accurate as shading can be analysed for every hour and every day of the year whereas the DTI shading method at best just gives a snapshot of annual shading.

 

[Worcester]

I've created a film version of the shading diagram to fit the Solar Shading Meter : Solar Shading / PV Horizon Meter

Works OK, and can give a photocopy of the results to the client. Need an upstairs window close to the array for it to be of any use whatsoever... And there's still the challenge of what if the array doesn't face south......

 

[Ian-LS]

I've created a film version of the shading diagram to fit the Solar Shading Meter : Solar Shading / PV Horizon Meter

Works OK, and can give a photocopy of the results to the client. Need an upstairs window close to the array for it to be of any use whatsoever... And there's still the challenge of what if the array doesn't face south......

or the shading source is actually a chimney on the roof. Or numerous other flaws to this shading method. I for one will not be using its simplistic calculations preferring to use more accurate method such as modelling etc combined with average outputs expected for each month for any given angle and orientation.

 

[Matt_M]

I think the new MCS guide states that a shading analysis must be provided in each and every quotation - is it going to be feasible to use 3D modelling on every quotation completed?

 

[Ian-LS]

Seeing as the method was not consulted upon and we have a more accurate method of assessing shading then if we have to include it then we will but would resent having to be forced to use a method with don't agree with and weren't consulted upon.

and yes modelling can and is done on every quotation we provide.

 

[Gavin A]

I think the new MCS guide states that a shading analysis must be provided in each and every quotation - is it going to be feasible to use 3D modelling on every quotation completed?

we already do that as standard.

 

[SolarCity]

Checking shading from a window is an utterly laughable solution to this problem. What about the shading which affects certain parts of the roof and not the area we happen to be surveying from? What if there is no window?

I measure objects with my Leica D8 and accurately model the system with PV Sol Expert - Why, then, should I be conscripted into using a flawed method just because other firms do? Why shouldn't I point out to the customer that my method is better than the 'paper at the window' nonsense?

 

[SolarCity]

Likewise, we do 3D modelling as standard. I've yet to see an alternative method which is anywhere near accurate enough.

 

[Berneray]

I've been learning how to use SketchUp 3D Modeling with Geo Location via google earth. Its a brilliant and free tool....but to do accurately does take a lot of time....and you need accurate measurements.

And on side but related issue......Will products such as SolarEdge and Micro Inverters now become more popular and if so how would we account for them in calculations...

 

[Berneray]

And what about shading from clouds.....Impossible to avoid shading altogether when the sun goes behind a cloud and you can see the shadows move across the roof...

 

[SolarCity]

And what about shading from clouds.....Impossible to avoid shading altogether when the sun goes behind a cloud and you can see the shadows move across the roof...

Yeah, and what if the Martians arrive and park their spaceship right above your array?

 

[finchy]

I'm a expert on sketch-up and have been using it before we started solar pv however my question is, it still takes time to build then all the other paperwork. Is there margin in pv to do it, when you compete with bob the builder/double glazer working off a ladder !

 

[zeljuga]

Quote
(I've created a film version of the shading diagram to fit the Solar Shading Meter : Solar Shading / PV Horizon Meter

Works OK, and can give a photocopy of the results to the client. Need an upstairs window close to the array for it to be of any use whatsoever... And there's still the challenge of what if the array doesn't face south......)

Most likely Submarine type Periscope fitted with PV Horizon Meter on the top.