Question 1

What is a solar panel and how do I choose one?

Accepted Answer

A solar panel (photovoltaic module) converts sunlight into DC electricity. When choosing one, consider nominal power (Wp), efficiency, temperature coefficient, and warranty. In this project you can register panels and use them in production or sizing calculations.

Question 2

What does the inverter do, and what is the difference between OnGrid and OffGrid?

Accepted Answer

The inverter converts DC power from the panels to AC. In an OnGrid system it connects to the grid and can feed excess power back. In OffGrid it is used only for local consumption (with a battery). In the equipment section you can register inverters with their power rating and topology type.

Question 3

When are battery and charge controller needed?

Accepted Answer

In OffGrid or hybrid systems, the battery stores energy for use at night or when it is cloudy. The charge controller (PWM or MPPT) manages voltage and current to the battery to extend its life. For OffGrid sizing, the suggested number of batteries and charge controllers is shown in the output.

Question 4

How is cable cross-section determined?

Accepted Answer

Cable cross-section is calculated from the current flow and the allowed voltage drop percentage. The sizing output shows the suggested cross-section (mm²) and voltage drop percentage. Larger cross-sections are used for higher current and longer cable runs.

Question 5

What does the Sizing calculation output?

Accepted Answer

In Sizing mode, after entering the desired DC capacity and installation location, the output includes suggested panel count, inverter count, (for OffGrid) battery and charge controller count, and cable recommendation. seriesPerString and parallelStrings are shown when calculated by the backend.

Question 6

How does Production calculation differ from Sizing?

Accepted Answer

In Production you select equipment (panel, inverter, cable, and optionally battery and charge controller), and the system estimates energy production based on location and resolution (monthly/daily/hourly). Monthly and yearly charts are shown, and a daily chart when daily data is available.

Question 7

What are telecom (telecommunications) systems?

Accepted Answer

Telecom systems are solar-powered setups for communication sites: base stations, towers, and remote infrastructure. They are often OffGrid or hybrid because many sites have no grid or unreliable supply. The platform supports sizing and production for these applications.

Question 8

What is a hybrid system?

Accepted Answer

A hybrid system combines grid connection with battery storage. It can feed the grid, store excess solar in batteries, and use stored energy when needed. The platform supports hybrid design and sizing for self-consumption, backup, or peak shaving.

Question 9

How do I add equipment to the project?

Accepted Answer

From the Solar Equipments menu you can add panels, inverters, batteries, charge controllers, and cables. Each item is stored with name, manufacturer, and technical specs, and appears in the selection lists for Production and Sizing calculations.

Question 10

When is the Include cost option used?

Accepted Answer

When this option is enabled, the backend returns cost estimates (CAPEX, OPEX, and TCO) when supported, and the Financials tab shows the cost chart and table. Otherwise the response has economics: null and that tab shows Economics not available.