A new version of PVSYST, the design, simulation and analysis tool for PV systems has been developed under the framework of IEA  PVPS Task 7, PV in the Built Environment.

PVSYST 3.0, devised by Geneva University and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne has been improved to provide an easily accessible ergonomic graphical interface, specifically designed for architects, engineers and researchers.

The functionality of the package served to place it first in a survey of design tools undertaken by UK researchers in 1997. However, ease of use was identified as a shortcoming of earlier versions of the software. The modifications are designed to overcome this.

In addition, the new version features an expert system that guides the user towards an appropriate system configuration based on various physical imperatives, such as inverter operating voltage, battery choice, operating temperature and so on.

Designers participating in Task 7's PV in the Built Environment Design Competition (as announced in PV Power issue 11) have the opportunity to use PVSYST to assist with project sizing and economic analysis.

Information

• Andre Mermoud, University of Geneva
  Fax: +41 22 705 00
  Web: http://www.unige.ch/gap-e/pvsyst/

[ Top ] [ Previous article in PV Power ] [ Next article in PV Power ]