Odd Numbered Strings in SolarEdge Architecture

[jack.keane]

For even number strings, it's easy enough: Nb. of modules in parallel = 2; Nb. optimizers in series = String length/2

For odd number strings, what would be the best way to model them in PVsyst? (2 modules per optimizer, with the last optimizer having 1 module)

I can't add a subarray with Nb. of modules in parallel = 1, and then add the missing modules, as there must be 14 optimizers in series.

 

More about the system:

Modules - Hanwha Q.PEAK DUO L-G6.2 430

Optimizers - SolarEdge P860

Inverters - SE33.3K-US

 

Any tips or tricks that have worked for people in the past?

[André Mermoud]

Defining one only module in an optimizer belonging to a string of optimizers with 2 modules in indeed not possible in PVsyst in the present time.

There is no workaround.

[asanogo96]

Is there any work around implemented in the version 8.0?

[Robin Vincent]

No you cannot set heterogenous strings in PVsyst. 

The closest workaround would be to have subarrays with strings containing +1 and-1 modules relative to your odd-strings definition, and connect them to the same inverter.

It won't be exactly equivalent, and only work if the total number of modules connected to the inverter is even. But at least the total DC power would be correct, and the impact on the different component efficiencies and threshold limited.   

[asanogo96]

I don't think this method will work out for me because I am trying to replicate a system that has been built already. Two of the inverters have an odd number of modules, and I am using the 2:1 optimizers. Do you think that this is an issue that will eventually be tackled?

[Robin Vincent]

Yes this is planned for a future version of PVsyst (at least with optimizers), but I cannot give you any timeline for it.