Carry out a reliable solar survey
The quality of shading results depends primarily on the measurement position, heading and obstacle profile.
Choose the measurement position
Section titled “Choose the measurement position”Choose a position representative of the PV area being assessed. If you survey from the ground for a planned rooftop installation, use simulated height afterwards and check obstacle distances.
Avoid moving to a different position during the survey without repeating the corresponding assessment: the horizon profile depends on the observation point.
Check the compass
Section titled “Check the compass”Metal structures, tools, vehicles and electrical equipment can interfere with the magnetic sensor. If the orientation varies unexpectedly, move away from sources of interference.
Before capturing the first point, use Align with the sun when the sun is visible to calibrate the device’s heading reference. Once calibration is confirmed, start the survey at either end of your chosen sector.
Cover the relevant horizon
Section titled “Cover the relevant horizon”Gradually scan the entire sector being assessed, following the horizon line. From the ground facing a building, this sweep may cover around 180°, but the relevant area depends on the sun paths and obstacles.
Add more points where the profile changes sharply and space them further apart in clear areas. If only one isolated obstacle poses a risk, capture it accurately along with the adjacent horizon rather than adding unnecessary points across the whole clear area.
Review the results
Section titled “Review the results”After the survey, inspect the horizon profile chart for inconsistent points, abrupt elevation changes and uncovered sectors. Correct measurements where justified.