The method of designing a rooftop solar power system

As an investor planning to install a solar power system, it is essential to gather extensive information about standards and criteria for selecting suitable products for each specific project.

As a design engineer and consultant for investors during the design phase or material breakdown for the system, engineers must be well-versed in design standards, understand supporting tools, and be aware of the latest technical requirements in the market.

Read the following article to gain a deeper understanding of the comprehensive design method for a solar power system, including the latest standards, introductions to commonly used software, optimal product selection, and effective system layout.

1. Design foundations

To design a solar power project, fundamental platforms such as standards and supporting tools and software are necessary.

Firstly, attention should be given to standards when selecting solar power equipment, including key products such as solar panels, inverter conversion units, conductive devices, and protective equipment. Additionally, there are standards for designing electrical systems, such as standards for solar energy systems, cable tray layout, conductor selection, protective device choices, and direct or propagating lightning protection standards. Particularly noteworthy is compliance with fire safety regulations, which has become increasingly significant in recent times.

Regarding supporting software, DAT Solar predominantly uses licensed software like PVsyst, PVsol, Sketchup, and Pipe Flow Expert. These licensed programs are crucial for swiftly updating the latest data. Notably, PVsyst is a significant software aiding in system output simulation, economic problem-solving, or output commitment for the system.

2. Design method

The correct standard design process for a solar power system involves three main steps:

a. Equipment selection

To choose the right and suitable equipment, it is necessary to refer to standards for equipment and design, as introduced in the introduction.

Equipment selection should align with the project’s actual needs, relying on selected product technical specifications and coordinating the use of optimal products. For example, projects with specific requirements for high protection levels against corrosion, salt, ammonia, or hurricane-resistant capabilities for the solar panel array should choose inverters with suitable IP ratings to ensure the system’s stable and efficient operation with a long lifespan.

b. Equipment arrangement

When arranging equipment, attention must be given to the product’s user manual and standards for installation design (especially those related to fire safety).

For solar panels, the arrangement should minimize the shading effect and ensure the lowest impact on operations and maintenance.

Customers and partners can refer to inverter installation instructions for more information on equipment arrangement.

c. Simulation calculation

This is a crucial task in the rooftop solar power system design process, especially for projects requiring output commitments, typically in the first year. Therefore, choosing the right supporting software, updating the latest weather data, and adjusting actual data figures are essential for completing the project successfully.

These are the essential aspects to understand during the selection and design of a rooftop solar power system.

Solar power – energy storage has developed significantly in recent years in Vietnam, confirming its practical application value in business operations, electricity savings, and environmental protection. A system can be used for 20 – 30 years, so investors should not choose equipment solely based on cost factors but carefully consider factors to optimize investment efficiency and ensure safety during use. In addition, not only design but also the long-term construction and operation process are crucial aspects to consider. Choosing an EPC contractor with sufficient capacity, reputation, and experience, along with selecting standardized, quality equipment used globally and in Vietnam, is essential.

The above are practical experiences shared by DAT Solar, derived from over 12 years of experience in the solar power – energy storage field, providing and deploying over 10,000 systems totaling over 800MWp. We hope that customers and partners will find valuable information to make more effective solar power investments in the future.

For further consultation on the system design method and quality solar power equipment selection, please contact DAT Solar via the hotline 1800 6567 (free of charge) for 24/7 support. We are ready to provide comprehensive assistance to customers and partners today!