Using Modular Inverters in PVFARM

This guide explains how to configure and implement modular inverters in PVFARM, using the TMEIC inverter series as an example. The approach leverages different module sizes (1, 3, and 6) to optimize layout efficiency and cost-effectiveness in solar site planning.

Overview of Modular Inverters

The TMEIC modular inverter system allows for flexible inverter sizing by adjusting the number of modules. In this article we'll be using:

• 1-module inverter
• 3-module inverter
• 6-module inverter

Note: These are not multiple independent inverters, but rather scalable variants of a single modular unit. Each version increases proportionally in footprint and power handling capability.

Catalog Setup

In the PVFARM catalog:

• Start with the 1-module inverter and define its specifications (inputs/outputs).
• Create 3-module and 6-module versions by copying that 1-module inverter and scaling:
  • Multiply electrical ratings and footprint by 3 or 6 accordingly.
• Object details (e.g., max input/output current) will vary by module count, but all other configurations remain identical.
  
  

Building the Layout in PVFARM

• Site Preparation
  Begin with a cleared site containing only tracker placements. Ensure blocking is enabled for layout development.
• Creating Sub-Areas by Module Size
  You will start this process by using the largest inverter first to try and fill out your layout as much as possible, then size down.
  
  

Sub-Area 1: 6-Module Inverter 

1. Select all boundaries
2. Set inverter type to TMEIC 6-module
3. Leave the priority for this sub-area as 1
4. Click Update

This step populates the layout with the largest inverters wherever space allows. Due to their size, these units will only fit in less constrained areas.

Sub-Area 2: 3-Module Inverter

1. Add a second sub-area and select all boundaries again.
2. Set priority as  2. This will allow the first sub-area to stay preserved, and the second will fill in the gaps.

1. Set inverter type to TMEIC 3-module
2. Click Update

The 3-module inverters will now fill remaining gaps that the 6-module units couldn't occupy, in the example used it placed blocks in some of the smaller areas, but still didn't fill the whole site out.

Sub-Area 3: 1-Module Inverter

1. Add a third sub-area
2. Again, select all boundaries
3. Set priority = 3
4. Choose TMEIC 1-module as the inverter type.
5. Click Update

This pass fills in tighter areas that couldn't accommodate the larger modules. It provides flexibility for edge zones or irregular boundary shapes.

Fine-Tuning the Layout

You can now fine-tune your layout using a couple different options:

• Split boundaries or redefine regions to better control inverter assignment.
• Reconfigure sub-areas to test different layouts.
  
  • Select "draw new" in the subareas section to select certain areas within your boundaries.

Reviewing Project Metrics

Navigate to the Project tab and review metrics by sub-area:

• Filter by selected sub-areas (1, 2, 3) to view individual inverter impacts.
• Compare layout efficiency, electrical capacity, and space utilization per inverter module count.
• Use this data to determine where layout adjustments might optimize performance or reduce costs.