System Advisor Model (SAM) Description
Photovoltaic systems can vary widely, ranging from small installations on residential rooftops to expansive utility-scale projects. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems are utilized for generating electricity and come in various forms, such as parabolic troughs, power towers, and linear Fresnel designs. Projects often involve power purchase agreements (PPAs) that connect the system to the grid at a designated interconnection point, allowing revenue generation through the sale of electricity. Ownership of these projects can reside with a single entity or involve partnerships that may include flip or leaseback arrangements. Additionally, there are instances of third-party ownership where the solar system is situated on the property of the customer, but the ownership lies with a separate developer who compensates the host for the electricity produced, typically through a PPA or a lease agreement. This model not only facilitates the adoption of solar energy but also provides financial incentives for property owners to invest in renewable energy solutions.
System Advisor Model (SAM) Alternatives
Pylon
Pylon's intuitive design software allows you to create accurate proposals from anywhere, in less than 2 minutes. Pylon is the only software that allows you to view high-resolution imagery within your app. Pylon's award winning 3D Solar Shading toolkit helps you identify and track shading impacts throughout the year. Pylon's load profile analysis and interval data analysis will help you and your team to better understand customer consumption patterns. Analyze load profiles & interval data. You can close more solar proposals by using interactive Web & PDF proposals and native eSignatures. Fully integrated solar CRM that integrates with your solar design software to convert proposals. Pylon Solar CRM offers 2-way SMS and email communications, team management, lead management and pre-made deal pipelines.
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PVcase
PVcase Ground Mount is an AutoCAD-based software that allows you to design solar power plants at utility scale. It allows solar engineers to reduce project costs and increase reliability while improving solar plant performance. Realistic, terrain-based PV layouts can reduce project uncertainty and eliminate design errors. Great solar designs can be ruined by poor CAPEX. Get a clear breakdown of the project costs early. Optimize your design and assess potential near-shading issues. Streamline your electrical design by streamlining string mapping and device placement. You can easily download and share cable runs, piling lengths and other cost estimates with your team. PVsyst allows you to export your PV design in a custom format.
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PV-DesignPro
The PV-DesignPro suite is a dedicated tool for designing and analyzing standalone photovoltaic systems, incorporating hourly simulations that leverage climate data from 239 locations across the U.S. Developed in collaboration with Sandia National Laboratories, this enhanced software builds on the original PV-DesignPro-S model. Version 6.0 is compatible with various Windows operating systems, including Windows 95, 98, NT, Win2000, and Vista, and allows users to simulate the operation of photovoltaic energy systems over the course of a year, adapting to selected climate conditions and system specifications. The Solar Design Studio CD-ROM features three distinct versions of PV-DesignPro: "PV-DesignPro-S" for systems with battery storage, "PV-DesignPro-G" for grid-connected systems without storage, and "PV-DesignPro-P" for water pumping applications. Each version is designed to provide precise and comprehensive insights into expected system power output, ensuring that users can effectively plan their photovoltaic installations. Moreover, the software serves as an essential resource for engineers and designers aiming to optimize the efficiency and performance of solar energy systems.
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SunDAT
SunDAT offers a web-based solution for designing utility-scale and commercial solar photovoltaic systems. Our cutting-edge, patented technology is designed to optimize the Ground Coverage Ratio (GCR) and maximize energy yields, even on challenging terrains. The system is adept at managing complex boundaries and obstacles, simplifying the design process significantly. By automating workflows, SunDAT enhances the overall efficiency of solar design, making it easier to pinpoint areas with steep slopes or identify sections within a solar array that require grading or should be avoided altogether. Additionally, users can create visual heatmaps, export them to PVsyst, and conduct pile length calculations effortlessly. The software supports exporting project data in various formats such as PDF, DXF, and DAE, facilitating seamless integration with programs like AutoCAD and PVsyst for further design refinement and analysis. SunDAT Web software is tailored to optimize both large-scale utility projects and commercial PV designs, accommodating everything from a substantial 150MW utility-scale ground-mount system to a more modest 2 MW commercial rooftop installation. With SunDAT, you can ensure your solar designs are not only efficient but also effective in harnessing renewable energy.
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Integrations
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Company Details
Company:
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Year Founded:
1977
Headquarters:
United States
Website:
sam.nrel.gov/
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Product Details
Platforms
Windows
Mac
Types of Training
Training Docs
Webinars
Training Videos
Customer Support
Online Support
System Advisor Model (SAM) Features and Options
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