Solar Preliminary Design and Analyses: A Comprehensive Guide for Utility-Scale Developers

What Exactly is Solar Preliminary Design? 

Solar preliminary design is the comprehensive diagnostic phase where developers transform a raw land parcel into a potential solar energy asset.

Preliminary design is where every solar developer’s most pressing questions are answered:

• Are there any hidden challenges - environmental restrictions, unsuitable slopes, or unseen constraints?

• How much can I build on this land?

• Am I optimizing this site’s full potential, or leaving megawatts on the table?

• Can this land deliver the yield I need to meet investor expectations?

If you’ve ever felt the weight of balancing precision, speed, and scalability in your projects, this guide is for you. Dive in to uncover why mastering the art of preliminary design is your key to unlocking seamless solar development, from concept to reality.

 

Why Preliminary Design Matters

For utility-scale solar developers, the stakes of the preliminary design phase are high. This isn’t just another step in the process—it’s a critical decision gate in the development process. 

Every input and every decision during this stage ripples through the lifecycle of your project, impacting your timeline, budget, and ROI. 

Here are a few unseen complexities that developers come across: 

• Land potential vs. reality: What looks promising at first glance can reveal unexpected constraints—soil stability, flood zones, or hidden exclusion areas. Can you anticipate these before they cost you millions?

• Grid realities: Is your interconnection plan scalable? How do you factor in evolving grid congestion and curtailment risks during design?

• Yield optimization: Investors demand precise, defensible outputs. Are your irradiation and slope calculations granular enough to meet scrutiny?

• Permitting tightropes: Environmental constraints, like wetland setbacks or wildlife corridors, can derail even the best-laid plans if uncovered too late.
  

 

Why Precision Equals Profit

Consider this: 

• Even a slight error in energy yield predictions can translate to millions lost in financing and/or operational inefficiencies.

• Missing terrain challenges during design can lead to hundreds of thousands in remediation costs.

• Reworking designs mid-project can delay construction by months or years, adding unplanned costs and eroding investor confidence.

• Missed constraints during preliminary design often lead to site redesigns further inflating costs.

 

The Key Question: Are You Optimizing or Guessing?

The Developers Who Win Are the Ones Who Prepare to Win.

Preliminary design isn’t just a report—it’s your competitive edge. It’s where you define not only what’s possible but what’s optimal. This stage equips you to:

• Mitigate risks before they emerge.

• Accurately predict costs and yields that stand up to scrutiny.

• Align all stakeholders on a clear, data-backed vision for the project. 

When done right, the preliminary design doesn’t just protect your project—it elevates it, positioning it to outperform expectations at every stage.

With every analysis, you’re answering the real question: How do I build smarter, faster, and better than the competition?

 

 

The Five Pillars of Solar Preliminary Design

1. Site Boundary and Access Evaluation

• Verify legal property boundaries

• Define non-development areas by identifying planning constraints and buffers

• Run detailed assessment of the roads to be used for construction and access to the solar plant

• Determine a location for buildings, substations, and compound areas

• Specify the fenced area

 

2. Topographical and Layout Analysis

• Create detailed 3D terrain models

• Analyze slope gradients and elevation variations

• Design initial panel placement strategies

• Map potential civil works requirements

• Identify optimal equipment such as inverters and transformers
  

 

3. Layout Configuration

• Equipment selection (modules and inverters)

• Mounting system typology (e.g. fixed structure or tracker)

• Module per string

• Table or tracker size by defining module position (landscape or portrait), number of columns, and number of rows

• Table tilt (fixed structure) or angle of rotation (tracker)

• Pitch or inter-row spacing

• Create internal roads to make sure access to key equipment is possible

 

4. Energy Yield Forecasting

• Analyze local solar irradiance data

• Model seasonal performance variations

• Define losses such as cabling, soiling, nearby shadows, etc.

• Calculate probabilistic energy production

• Assess microclimate impact on performance

• Develop initial energy yield projections

 

5. Optimized Layout Design and Project Evaluation

• Iterate different variable combinations to have different simulations to compare

• Put together all the costs, from development, and construction to operation and maintenance

• Include your financing terms in your economic model

• Collect electric market prices forecast or define a price per unit of energy sold

• Make an economic assessment of each simulation and see which performs best 

  
  

 

The Realities of Solar Preliminary Design: Why It’s Harder Than It Seems

Designing utility-scale solar projects may seem straightforward at first—after all, how complex can arranging solar panels in an open field be? 

However, this perception largely misses the mark. Behind every large-scale solar development is a web of engineering, environmental planning, and economic considerations that demand a multi-disciplinary approach.

The preliminary design phase is where your project’s true potential is either unlocked—or overlooked. 

From the outset, the goal is clear: maximize energy yield while managing costs, regulatory requirements, and site limitations. But these challenges don’t always make themselves obvious at first glance. 

It’s not just about finding a plot of land—it’s about transforming that land into a high-performing, financially viable asset.

The Early Decision: Will This Site Work, or Not?

One of the most difficult decisions developers face early on is whether a site has the potential to support a profitable solar project—before committing significant time and money into detailed studies. 

It’s a balancing act: you need reliable data to make an informed decision, but gathering that data comes at a high cost.

This is where most developers face a tough choice: how do you assess a site’s viability quickly without draining resources on a detailed evaluation that could turn out to be a waste? 

Most fall back on free resources like satellite images, maps, and basic site visits to identify deal-breakers. However, these initial assessments can be inaccurate or incomplete, leaving developers with a lot of uncertainty.

The Challenge: Quick, Informed Decisions on Solar Sites Without Overspending

So how do top developers succeed in the preliminary design phase without throwing money down the drain or relying on inaccurate data? The answer is efficient, cost-effective tools that give you the data you need to assess site potential at the speed you need it. 

Tools like Glint Solar have emerged as excellent cost-effective solutions for this early assessment phase, helping developers quickly evaluate site potential without having to - literally - over-engineer projects in AutoCAD, face major upfront investments, or rely on expensive outsourced consultants. This helps them avoid wasting money on detailed studies and fees for sites that won't work out.  These top developers buy into the idea of “getting it right from the start”.

 

Challenges Solar Developers Face During the Preliminary Design Phase

Interconnection conditions

Interconnection costs and conditions can be a major headache for developers. These costs often remain unclear until after significant money has been spent on land and engineering. 

Just finding accurate information about substation locations, transmission line routes, and their available capacity can be difficult, as this data is often scattered or not publicly accessible. 

Tools like Glint Solar help reduce this uncertainty by providing GIS layers showing grid infrastructure, making it easier to identify promising interconnection points early in the development process.

 

The process can take months or even years, and available grid capacity might vanish while waiting in the queue as other projects move ahead. In some markets, developers must make significant upfront financial commitments to secure a connection, while in others, these costs are lower—but the risk remains: unpredictable connection costs can still threaten a project’s viability.

 

Terrain

Terrain analysis is another major hurdle solar developers face. Traditional methods of assessing slopes, drainage patterns, and soil conditions often require expensive surveys and site visits.

Even small terrain features can have big impacts - a seemingly minor slope might require extensive earthwork, hidden water flows could cause erosion problems, and poor soil conditions might demand costly foundation solutions.

What looks like a perfectly flat site on Google Maps might turn out to need millions in earth-moving work.

Further complications arise when trying to balance cut-and-fill volumes, manage stormwater, and avoid areas prone to flooding, all while staying within the project's budget constraints.

Preliminary terrain analysis for a solar plant is key to understanding the site's geographical and topographical features to determine its technical and economic suitability. Key aspects to look at include:

• Slopes: Check gradients and elevations to identify areas needing grading or special design considerations.

• Aerial images: Use high-resolution visuals to spot obstacles and plan efficient layouts.

• Floodings: Identify low-lying areas prone to water accumulation to avoid potential damage.

• Water streams: Map natural streams to prevent disruption and maintain environmental compliance.

• Soil composition and strength: Test soil to ensure it can support structures and reduce foundation risks.

• Wind, snow, and seismic loads: Assess environmental conditions to select durable mounting systems.

• Atmospheric corrosion: Consider local climate factors that may affect equipment longevity.

 

Planning

Environmental planning is also challenging because multiple departments must assess the site and implementation from their unique perspectives, evaluating potential impacts (for example on ecosystems, flooding, archeology, access, visual impact, etc.).

This process requires coordination to ensure all relevant constraints are considered.

If unexpected findings or constraints are discovered in later stages, they can significantly impact the project design—for example, reducing the capacity that can be installed—which in turn affects both the technical feasibility and economic viability of the project.

 

Solar plant energy production

Simulating how much energy your solar plant will produce is one of the most important steps in planning, but it can feel overwhelming for new and existing solar developers alike.

You need to determine the solar potential for the project site (using what’s called "irradiation data") and ensure your yield predictions are accurate.

Why? Because even small errors in these calculations can lead to big surprises for the final PVsyst analysis and, in the worst case, drastically affect the project’s revenue and LCOE. 

Here’s the challenge: Running these simulations in the preliminary stages can be time-consuming, especially when information has to be handed off to engineers. And if the site turns out to be unviable, you’ve wasted valuable time and resources.

This is where tools like Glint Solar can save the day. It provides quick, reliable estimates of how much energy your site can produce—without needing a team of experts. Better yet, its results provide accuracy from the start, with on average just a 1-2% deviation from PVsyst. To further streamline the project, simply export your results to both PVsyst and AutoCAD.

In simple terms: Glint Solar helps you understand whether your site is worth investing in, faster and more accurately, so you can avoid wasting time or money.

 

Technology 

The cost and availability of solar technologies have generally trended downward, with consistent price drops over the years—except during exceptional periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, when supply chain disruptions caused temporary spikes. While materials like silicon and rare earth metals can occasionally see price fluctuations due to geopolitical tensions or trade policies, the long-term trend points to increasing affordability. That said, inflation, tariffs, and trade wars can still add uncertainty to project budgets, making it crucial to stay informed and adaptable.

What’s estimated as a cost-effective solution today might be a budget-busting headache tomorrow. These price swings can make early-stage financial projections unreliable, and in many cases, developers have to adjust their designs to fit new realities.

 

Electricity market

Finally, the electricity market is increasingly complex and unpredictable, posing significant challenges for solar project developers. Negative electricity prices, driven by surges in renewable energy production during low-demand periods, are hitting record highs across Europe. This trend has been exacerbated by the rapid growth of solar capacity, which has pressured hourly prices below zero during peak production hours.

These negative prices, coupled with stagnating electrification efforts in key sectors like industry and transportation, are dampening investor confidence and slowing the pace of solar installations. Misjudging electricity prices can lead to overly optimistic or cautious forecasts, skewing investment decisions and jeopardizing project viability.

Reliable forecasting methods, sensitivity analyses, and strategies like battery storage and demand response mechanisms are becoming critical for navigating this volatile landscape. Developers must adapt to ensure projects remain economically sound despite the evolving energy market dynamics.

To learn more about these terms and more, be sure to check out our Solar Glossary Guide - Understanding the essentials of greenfield solar development.

 

 

What is a Buildable Area? Why It’s the Keystone of Solar Site Feasibility

 

The buildable area is the defining factor in determining the success of any utility-scale solar project. It’s not merely a calculation of available land but a meticulous analysis of where infrastructure can be installed and operate at maximum efficiency. This process delves into the intersection of technology, environment, and economics—ensuring each square meter of land serves the project’s purpose effectively. 

 

The High Stakes of Buildable Area Analysis

• The terrain equation: Slopes and elevation might seem minor, but they dictate foundational costs and structural integrity. Misreading terrain data can escalate costs with extensive civil works or limit the solar array's efficiency. Advanced terrain-mapping tools ensure that land is leveraged optimally, avoiding pitfalls like increased grading or suboptimal panel alignment.
  
  

• Environmental exclusion zones: Nature’s constraints—such as wetlands, flood zones, and wildlife habitats—are non-negotiable. Without layered GIS mapping to spot these exclusions early, developers risk project delays, compliance issues, or even outright rejection during the permitting process.

• The overlooked shade: Solar isn’t immune to shading. Trees grow, infrastructure evolves, and seasons shift—all of which can reduce energy yield. Dynamic shading analysis models that account for year-round and future variations are vital for accurate energy forecasts.

• Grid realities: While proximity to a substation seems promising, it’s a puzzle of costs, load capacities, and grid reliability. Ignoring this can lead to underperforming projects or inflated transmission costs that undermine profitability.

 

Unlocking Buildable Area Insights

• Precision through layered data: Combining satellite imagery, drone surveys, and GIS mapping offers a multidimensional view of the land, uncovering hidden constraints and enabling smarter layout decisions.

• Future-proof preliminary design: Solar sites evolve with regulations and natural changes. A flexible design approach, one that adapts to shifting environmental or stakeholder requirements, prevents costly reworks.

• Early and clear stakeholder engagement: Early and proactive collaboration with engineers, environmental experts, and regulatory bodies ensures that no constraints are overlooked, and timelines remain intact.

An in-depth, multi-faceted evaluation of the buildable area isn’t just a task; it’s the foundation of every efficient solar project. When done right, it not only de-risks development but also creates the blueprint for long-term project success. Every hectare or acre analyzed with precision is a step toward operational excellence.

 

 

Key Elements of a Preliminary Solar Project Design and Analysis Report

 

1. Project Overview

• Project Name: [Insert Project Name]

• Location: [Town, Region, Country]

• Coordinates:

  • Latitude: [Value]

  • Longitude: [Value]

• Site Images:

  • Location Map: Shows the project’s position in the country.

  • 2D Site Map: Displays the project layout and surrounding area.

 

2. Site Visualization

• 3D Model: An interactive 3D image showing the layout and panel arrangement. Helps stakeholders visualize how the project will look and fit within the surrounding area.

 

3. Solar Resource Assessment

• Annual Average Irradiation
  Using SolarGIS and ERA5 datasets, irradiation levels are calculated to estimate the project's energy potential.
       - Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI [Value]

       - Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI): [Value]

• Energy Yield Projections
  Forecasted energy production based on local solar resource data, system design, and performance simulations.
       - P50 Estimate: [Value] kWh/m²
       - P90 Estimate: [Value] kWh/m²

 

4. System Design Parameters

Capacity: [Insert value]
Panel Count: [Insert number]
First-Year Production: [Insert value]
Annual Variability: [Insert percentage]

• Panel Type: Monocrystalline panels for high efficiency and durability.
       - Panel Count: [Total number]

• System Configuration
       - Tilt Angle and Orientation: Optimized for local geographic conditions.
       - Inverter and Balance of System: Using industry-leading inverters for maximum efficiency

• Estimated System Capacity: Total system capacity is calculated based on the available land area and expected energy yield.
       - Total Capacity: [in MWp]
       - First-Year Production: [in MW]

 

5. Energy Yield Estimation

• Performance Simulation: Yield is simulated using software tools to assess energy output under various conditions.

  • Capacity Factor: Estimated using simulation tools like Glint Solar

  • Specific Yield: kWh generated per installed kW of capacity.
    

    
    

• Projected Energy Output:

  • P50 Estimate: Expected energy output under typical conditions.

  • P90 Estimate: Energy output under worst-case (90% confidence) conditions.

 

6. Losses and Performance Factors

• System Losses: Losses due to shading, dirt accumulation, and inverter inefficiencies are factored into the energy yield analysis.

       - Temperature Losses: [Value] %
       - Mismatch Losses: [Value] %
  

• Gains: 

       - Bifacial gains: [Value] %

 

7. Site Assessment

• Land Availability or Buildable Area: The site is assessed for the availability of land area for solar panel installation, including required space for infrastructure and buffer zones.

  • Buildable Area: [area in hectares or acres]

• Elevation Profile: The elevation profile of the site is analyzed to assess the potential for topographical shading and to determine optimal panel placement. Using GIS and 3D modeling data, we can identify how variations in terrain may impact system performance by causing shading or limiting the available space for panel installation.

  • Elevation Map: [visual or data on terrain variations]

• Shading and Terrain Analysis: GIS and 3D modeling data are used to evaluate shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions.

  • Shading Losses: Shading Losses

• Infrastructure: Evaluation of access roads, grid connection points, location for inverters and batteries, exclusion areas, buffers, and ease of installation based on terrain and existing infrastructure.

  
  

 

Step-by-Step Process of Preliminary Solar Design

 

Step 1 - Land Identification: The Foundation of Every Solar Project

The first step in initiating a solar energy project is land identification, which lays the foundation for successful development. 

This can be achieved by leveraging various approaches:

- Land brokers with vast networks can connect you with owners willing to lease or sell properties tailored to solar development.
- Direct outreach to landowners can yield promising opportunities, but requires ways of building trust as multiple developers will target the best land.

But the real game-changer method?

It’s Glint Solar’s parcel search tool. Glint Solar’s Parcel Search refines the search by considering key parameters like land size, topography, and proximity to grid infrastructure, making the process smoother and more efficient.

In addition, Glint Solar also facilitates direct prospecting, enabling developers to assess and evaluate potential sites with precision and efficiency. If you're prospecting for land, the tool helps to optimize your conversion rates to “kill bad land from the start.” 


Land suitability isn’t just about size—it’s about quality. Glint Solar also helps developers ensure the land is free of constraints like zoning restrictions or protected areas, and that the terrain is suitable for solar panel installation. Look for land that’s flat or gently sloping, and always factor in potential shading issues like nearby trees or buildings.

 

Step 2 - Grid Interconnection: Assessing the Power Potential

Grid interconnection is one of the most significant determinants of your project’s scope. Understanding the grid’s capacity, limitations, and interconnection requirements is essential for defining your solar project’s feasibility. You’ll need to evaluate three key components: 

1. Power limitations: How much power can the grid handle?

2. Interconnection point: Where does the grid connection sit in relation to your site?

3. Interconnection voltage: Higher voltage levels may necessitate building new substations, which can significantly affect costs and timelines.

By understanding these factors early in the planning process, you’ll avoid costly surprises down the line and ensure your project’s interconnection is as seamless as possible.

 

Step 3 - Project Site: Defining the Essential Components

Once the land is identified, it’s time to ensure several critical details are thoroughly addressed to facilitate smooth project development. This stage involves defining critical elements like site boundaries, access points, and compound areas. These decisions shape the success of the entire project:

• Site boundary: Be clear on the lease or purchase agreement’s limits.

• Access road: Determine access points for construction and operations.

• Compounds and facilities: Identify areas for essential infrastructure like customer switchgear, substations, storage, and parking.

• PV area: A critical component here is to define the PV area—the space dedicated to solar module installation. This needs to align with your design and energy goals from the outset, ensuring maximum efficiency and output.

 

Step 4 - Project Case and Purpose: Understanding the Bigger Picture

Before diving into module selection, layout, and technology choices, it’s vital to define your project’s objectives and performance case.

Are you optimizing for maximum DC power? Minimizing Levelized cost of electricity (LCOE)? Or maximizing the Internal rate of return (IRR)? 

This will dictate the choice of technology, layout, and system design. Whether you're primarily focused on yield optimization or cost reduction, aligning the project’s goals with your design approach ensures that the solar plant will meet or exceed expectations.

This step is vital because the combination of variables defining a solar plant design—such as tilt angle, spacing, and system configuration—can differ significantly based on the desired outcome. Aligning the design with the project’s purpose ensures the solar plant performs optimally within its intended operational framework.

 

Step 5 - Layout Configuration: The Nuts and Bolts of Your Design

With your objectives defined, it’s time to build the project layout. Layout configuration must align with your overall project goals while adhering to environmental and technical constraints.

You'll need to make important decisions around the configuration of your system:

• Module and inverter selection

• Mounting system: Fixed-tilt or tracker

• Table size and spacing: Optimizing for efficiency and maintenance access

• Tilt angle and rotation: Critical for maximizing energy capture

With Glint Solar’s design and layout functionality, this process becomes fast and efficient. Multiple design configurations can be tested and compared in just minutes. You’ll see which layout offers the best performance based on energy yield, allowing you to make data-backed decisions and lock in the best design for your project’s success.

 

Step 6 - Simulation: Predicting Performance Before It’s Built

Simulation is where you evaluate the performance of a solar site in terms of annual energy yield and specific yield (the energy produced per unit of power installed).

Accurate simulations require inputs like: 

• Site location, which determines the geographic and climatic conditions

• Irradiation data, which can be sourced from various reliable databases

• Equipment specifications, such as the characteristics of the selected modules and inverters

• Electrical configuration, including string configurations and connections

• Loss factors like cabling losses and soiling

This isn’t just about predicting how much energy your system will generate—it’s about being able to optimize the design for maximum efficiency. Glint Solar’s simulation tools integrate all of these variables along with a 3D layout of the site, enabling more accurate analysis of terrain features and layout efficiency to enhance overall project performance.

These detailed analyses help developers evaluate annual energy yield and specific yield with precision, offering valuable insights for optimizing project design to ensure your projects meet their energy production targets.

Additionally, Glint Solar facilitates integration with other simulation software by allowing users to export the layout in 3D. This flexibility ensures compatibility with external tools such as PVsyst thus facilitating more extensive analyses and comparisons to refine the design and maximize project performance.

 

Step 7 - Decision: Moving Forward With Confidence

Once the simulations are complete and you’ve explored all design options, the final decision comes down to a thorough evaluation of both the technical and economic viability of the project.

This is a cross-departmental effort, involving engineers, financial experts, and legal teams.

Together, you’ll assess the feasibility of your design, cost estimates, and strategic alignment with business goals.

If the project checks out, you move forward with confidence, taking the next steps to obtain permits, conduct site studies, and develop detailed engineering plans for implementation.

 

 

Mastering Solar Project Analysis: Best Practices for Developers

Solar project analysis is where strategy meets precision, ensuring that every decision you make leads to a technically sound, financially viable, and environmentally responsible solar project. For utility-scale solar developers, this phase is more than just a checklist—it’s your roadmap to mitigating risks and maximizing returns. Let’s break down the essentials, enriched with industry nuances that can sharpen your edge.

 

Technical Site Analysis

1. Slope: Beyond Gradients

What it is: Evaluating the terrain's stability and suitability for solar infrastructure installation.

How to do it: With tools like Glint Solar, you can perform preliminary slope analyses using GIS data. As your project progresses, on-site or drone surveys refine these insights, calculating earthmoving requirements and providing the accuracy needed for major decisions.

• Flat (0-5%): Ideal for fixed or tracker systems.

• Gentle (6-10%): Commonly manageable for most installations.

• Moderate (11-15%): May require earthworks or specialized foundations.

• Steep (>15%): Limits tracker options

Fix systems can be installed up to 25% slope. Tracker systems up to 15%, but some manufacturers offer the possibility of up to 20%.

Why it matters: A 2% gradient miscalculation might not seem significant, but it can dramatically affect tracker alignment, shading losses, and construction costs.

 

2. Mapping: The Foundation of Precision

What it is: Creating detailed, accurate representations of Earth's surface features, including hills, valleys, rivers, roads, and buildings

How to do it: Solar park designers use software to arrange PV modules and equipment, but precise site representation in the software is crucial. Online data often has misalignments, making it impossible to ensure everything will fit until accurate mapping is available. However, Glint Solar enables mapping the site with precision by using reliable GIS data and if necessary importing files.

Why it matters: Mapping reveals hidden obstacles—like ponds or protected trees—that could derail construction timelines or equipment placement.

 

3. Orthophotos: Seeing is Believing

What is it: An aerial photograph that has been geometrically corrected to ensure uniform scale and accurate representation of the Earth's surface, eliminating distortions. It can be used as a map.

How to get it: Orthophotos can be available in government portals or can be obtained by flying a specialized drone. Glint Solar automates orthophoto integration for confidence in design.

Why it matters: Like mapping, it ensures high accuracy in equipment placement and area designation. The up-to-date, scaled image allows designers to plan with confidence & precision.

 

4. Flooding: Planning for the Unexpected

What is it: Assessment of an area's susceptibility to flooding, considering factors such as rainfall, topography, soil conditions, water bodies, and drainage systems. It involves evaluating the potential impact of flood events on infrastructure, human safety, and the environment.

How to do it: Glint Solar’s flood analysis layers make this data accessible upfront.

Why it matters: Flood risks impact mounting systems, infrastructure height, and long-term site resilience. A flood zone oversight can escalate O&M costs, erode investor trust, and jeopardize timelines.

 

5. Soil Composition and Strength: It’s What Lies Beneath

What is it: Evaluation of the subsurface conditions of a site to recommend designs and construction methods for foundations, earthworks, and other geotechnical aspects of projects

How to do it: Glint Solar enables it to analyze soil composition and strength data either by available layers or by importing it. 

Why it matters: Soil dictates whether your mounting system relies on piling, footings, or galvanization measures. Ignoring soil analysis can lead to structural instability, increasing costs post-installation.

 

Energy Production Simulations

1. Data Accuracy: The Bedrock of Reliability

• High-quality input data: Use reliable and granular weather datasets (e.g., satellite-based or ground-measured irradiance, temperature, and wind speed).

• Site-specific conditions: Incorporate location-specific details like shading profiles, terrain features, and albedo values.

• Component specifications: Input accurate and detailed data for solar panels, inverters, trackers, and other system components, including degradation rates and efficiency curves.

Pro insight: An overly optimistic irradiance assumption can inflate energy yield projections, leading to investor disappointment and financial strain.

 

2. Software Selection: Tools of the Trade

• Choose Robust Tools: Opt for industry-standard simulation software like PVsyst, SAM, or Homer Pro—or explore emerging solutions like Glint Solar, which is benchmarked against PVsyst for accuracy—based on your project's size and complexity.

• Validation: Validate software outputs against historical data or comparable projects to ensure reliability.

• Updates: Use the latest versions of the software to access updated models and features.

 

3. System Design Considerations

• Optimal Array Configuration: Experiment with different tilt angles, azimuths, and row spacings to maximize energy yield.

• Tracking Systems: Simulate both fixed-tilt and tracking systems to evaluate their impact on energy production.

• Loss Factors: Include all potential losses in the simulation, such as soiling, shading, mismatch, temperature effects, and inverter clipping.

 

4. Scenario Analysis: Preparing for Extremes

• Weather Variability: Run simulations for best-case, worst-case, and average weather conditions to understand potential variability in output.

• Performance Ratios (PR): Evaluate PR to compare actual energy output with the theoretical potential, accounting for losses.

• System Expansion: Consider simulations for future expansion scenarios or integration with storage systems.

Pro insight: Robust scenario analysis ensures your project remains bankable under scrutiny, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

 

5. Iterative Optimization: Refining for Excellence

• Design Iterations: Conduct multiple simulations to refine system design and configurations.

• Sensitivity Analysis: Test sensitivity to key variables like irradiance, component efficiency, and economic factors.

• Benchmarking: Compare simulation results against similar existing plants to ensure accuracy.

Pro insight: Iteration isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Each refinement aligns your design closer to peak efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Why Best Practices Matter

The stakes are too high to leave solar project analysis to chance. Every gradient, data point, and configuration impacts your project’s timeline, budget, and ROI. By mastering these best practices, you’ll not only avoid costly pitfalls but also set the foundation for a project that thrives under scrutiny and outperforms expectations.

For utility-scale developers, it’s simple: Preparation isn’t just power—it’s profit.

 

 

How 3D Visualization Solves Critical Solar Site Development Challenges

In the competitive solar world, precision is the differentiator between good and exceptional projects. And right now, most developers are leaving massive amounts of potential profit on the table by sticking with 2D mapping techniques.

3D visualization isn't just a "nice to have." It's your strategic weapon for crushing inefficiencies and extracting maximum value from every single solar site.

 

The Hidden Flaws of Conventional 2D Site Assessment

Consider this: Traditional 2D mapping leaves developers vulnerable to:

• Underestimating earthwork requirements

• Misaligning panel layouts with complex terrain

• Overlooking microclimatic shading impacts that can reduce annual energy production

 

The Power of 3D Visualization in Terrain and Slope Analysis

The first key advantage of 3D visualization is its ability to provide a clear and detailed representation of the terrain. When working with land, even small variations in elevation or slope can have significant implications for solar panel placement, system performance, and overall project costs. For instance, steep slopes may require extensive grading, which can escalate costs and extend project timelines.

3D models allow developers to:

• Visualize slopes and elevation changes in detail, identifying areas that require special consideration or engineering intervention.

• Optimize panel placement by adjusting angles to better align with the terrain, ensuring maximum solar energy capture while avoiding unnecessary grading.

• Plan more efficiently, minimizing land use restrictions or issues by identifying obstacles like hills or depressions early on in the process.

 

Shading Analysis: Optimizing Panel Placement for Maximum Yield

Shading is one of the most significant challenges that developers face when planning solar projects. Static 2D analysis typically only accounts for major obstructions, such as buildings or trees, without considering seasonal changes or other smaller but equally impactful shading factors.

With 3D visualization, developers can simulate how shading will impact the site over time, including changes due to vegetation growth, terrain shifts, or nearby structures. By using 3D tools to perform dynamic shading simulations, developers can:

• Assess shading impacts throughout the year, factoring in the angle of the sun and seasonal shifts in the position of nearby obstacles.

• Place solar panels optimally by adjusting layouts based on shading analysis, ensuring panels are positioned to capture maximum sunlight.

• Visualize and optimize panel spacing to avoid areas that may be partially shaded at critical times of the day, improving energy yield predictions.

This level of detail helps developers create a more precise and efficient design, ensuring that the site performs optimally and avoids costly surprises down the line. The difference between good and exceptional solar projects is in these details.

The evolution of utility-scale solar demands sophisticated, data-driven design methodologies. 3D visualization represents a critical technological advancement in how we conceptualize, plan, and execute solar infrastructure projects.

Are your current preliminary design workflows keeping pace with these technological capabilities?

 

 

Solar Preliminary Design and Analysis FAQS

 

Question 1: How Does Accurate Preliminary Designs Facilitate a Faster Permitting Process

Accurate preliminary designs are crucial for speeding up the permitting process. By providing precise terrain analysis, buildable area identification, and reliable energy yield forecasts, Glint Solar helps developers avoid delays caused by inaccurate initial designs. Engineering-level accuracy ensures that projects meet regulatory requirements from the start, minimizing revisions and rework. This leads to faster approvals, fewer complications, and a smoother path to project completion.

 

Question 2: Why is Accurate Shading Analysis Critical During the Preliminary Design Phase?

Accurate shading analysis in the preliminary design phase is vital for optimizing energy yield predictions and ensuring system performance throughout a project’s lifespan. Early identification of shading risks—from seasonal variations to surrounding obstructions—allows developers to make informed decisions about panel placement, tilt angles, and spacing. Without this precision, developers risk underestimating energy losses, leading to poor system performance and costly redesigns. Moreover, a robust shading analysis can preempt permitting issues, as regulators are increasingly scrutinizing energy yield forecasts and system efficiency. By addressing shading concerns upfront, developers ensure that their designs are both technically sound and regulatory-compliant, reducing delays and ensuring smoother project execution.

 

Question 3: What are the Rules of Thumb for an Acceptable Grid Interconnection Distance Relative to a Project Site?

For large-scale solar projects, the acceptable grid interconnection distance relative to project size varies based on economics, project specifics, and regional factors. Here are general rules of thumb for balancing interconnection distance with project size:

• 1-25 MW: ≤5 km.

• 25-50 MW: ≤10 km.

• 50–100 MW: ≤20 km.

• 100–500 MW: ≤30–50 km.

• >500 MW): 50+ km feasible, with custom transmission solutions.

Of course, these are general guidelines and actual feasible distances can vary significantly based on:

• Local grid infrastructure

• Terrain and right-of-way costs

• Regional electricity prices

• Available substation capacity

• Environmental considerations

 

Question 4: What are the Common Voltage Levels By Project Size Breakdowns?

In solar projects, the selection of voltage levels is driven by project size, energy transmission requirements, and the need to minimize energy losses. 

On the DC side of the project (modules to inverters), 1,500V DC systems have become the industry standard for utility-scale projects as they reduce cabling costs and improve system efficiency.

On the low voltage AC side (inverter to transformer), common voltages are from 400V to 800V. That is defined by the inverter output voltage. 

From the transformer to the point of connection, voltages are driven by project size, energy transmission requirements, and the need to minimize energy losses among other factors.  Below is a breakdown of common voltage levels by project size:

 

 

• Medium voltage collection systems:

  Larger projects typically use 33–35 kV AC collection systems to consolidate energy from multiple inverters.

• High voltage for grid interconnection:

  For projects exporting power over long distances or interconnecting to the transmission network, higher voltage levels like 110 kV, 132 kV, or 230 kV AC are used to minimize losses.

• Customized voltage levels:

  For projects exporting power over long distances or interconnecting to the transmission network, higher voltage levels like 110 kV, 132 kV, or 230 kV AC are used to minimize losses. For very large projects or those in remote areas, custom high-voltage solutions (e.g., HVDC) may be deployed.

 

Question 5: What are the Requirements to Secure a Grid Connection Permit?

The requirements to secure a grid connection permit can vary significantly depending on the country and the utility responsible for the particular area. Each jurisdiction may have its own grid codes, technical standards, regulatory processes, and cost structures. Additionally, local utilities may impose specific criteria based on grid capacity, infrastructure conditions, and operational policies. It is essential to engage with the relevant utility or grid operator early in the project development process to understand their specific requirements and procedures. Below is a high-level outline of the regulatory and administrative requirements.

1. Grid connection application:

   - Submit an application to the utility or grid operator with:

   • • Project size and capacity.

     • Expected energy output (MWh/year).

     • Location and coordinates.

2. Compliance with grid code:

   - Prove the project will adhere to local grid codes, which specify technical and operational requirements (e.g., voltage range, frequency control, fault ride-through).

3. Permit and Approvals:

   - Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for transmission lines and substations.

   - Land use approvals for the interconnection infrastructure.

During the permitting process and in further stages, it will be necessary in some cases to analyze the points below as well: 

1. Technical feasibility and studies

        - Grid impact study

        - Load flow and fault levels analysis

        - Harmonics and flicker studies

        - Dynamic stability study
   
   

2. Site-specific details
   

        - Proximity to grid infrastructure

        - Interconnection design (such as substation and protection systems)

        - Power quality and control
   
   

3. Financial and commercial requirements

        - Interconnection cost estimate

        - Financial security

        - Cost-sharing agreement and scope of work
   
   

4. Communication and Control Systems

        - Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

        - Remote control capabilities

 

Question 6: What are the Most Common Ground Coverage Ratios or GCRs?

The Ground Coverage Ratio (GCR) is the ratio of the total area covered by the PV modules to the total available land area in a solar project. It plays a critical role in system design, affecting energy generation, shading, and land utilization. For large-scale solar projects, the most common GCR values depend on the type of mounting system and site-specific conditions.

The Ground Coverage Ratio (GCR) in solar projects depends on various factors and the specific optimization perspective of the project. 

Certain countries, like France, have specific requirements for Ground Coverage Ratio or GCR.

In France, the Ground Coverage Ratio for agrivoltaic projects is regulated to ensure that agricultural activity remains the primary use of the land. According to Decree No. 2024-318, for projects exceeding 10 MWp, the coverage rate must not exceed 40%. This means that the maximum projected surface area of photovoltaic modules on the plot should be limited to 40% under normal conditions of use.

Key considerations include the type of mounting system (fixed-tilt, single-axis tracker, or dual-axis tracker), site conditions such as terrain, topography, and climate, as well as project goals like maximizing energy output, land utilization, or cost efficiency. 

For instance, lower GCRs are often preferred in projects aiming to optimize energy yield by minimizing shading and improving solar access, whereas higher GCRs may be used in land-constrained sites to maximize installed capacity. Ultimately, the optimal GCR is determined by balancing technical performance, economic considerations, and the physical characteristics of the site.

• Fixed-Tilt Systems
       - GCR range: 35–50%
       - Fixed-tilt systems generally allow for higher GCRs because they do not require additional spacing for tracker movement.
  

• Single-Axis Trackers
       - GCR Range: 25–40%
       - Trackers require more spacing to account for panel movement and to minimize inter-row shading.
  

 

Question 7: What Project Factors Influence GCRs?

Several factors affect the Ground Coverage Ratio (GCR) in large-scale solar projects, as it involves balancing land utilization, shading, and energy generation efficiency. Below are the primary factors influencing GCR:

• Solar technology: Trackers lower GCR; fixed-tilt systems allow higher GCR. Also, bifacial panels favor lower GCR for albedo optimization.
  

• Shading and sunlight optimization: Lower GCR minimizes shading; higher GCR risks shading but saves space.
  

• Land constraints: Limited land requires higher GCRs, increasing shading potential.
  

• Terrain & topography: Sloped terrain lowers GCR; flat terrain supports higher GCR.
  

• Tilt angle: Higher tilt angles require lower GCR.
  

• Annual yields: Higher energy yield favors lower GCR; land optimization favors higher GCR.

The ideal GCR is a balance between minimizing shading, maximizing energy production, and optimizing land use. A detailed assessment of site-specific conditions, project goals, and technological constraints is essential to determine the optimal GCR for a large-scale solar project.

 

Question 8: What are the Best Irradiation Sources By Country or Region?

A reliable solar irradiation data source must be accurate, up-to-date, and widely trusted by the solar industry. Key factors include having at least 10 years of historical data, good resolution to capture local conditions, and validation against actual ground measurements. The source should be regularly updated and accepted by banks and technical advisors for project financing.

Global/multi-region:

• SolarGIS: Generally considered the most accurate commercial database

• NASA POWER: Good for initial assessments, free but lower resolution

• SolarGIS pvPlanner: High accuracy but paid service

• PVGIS: Particularly good for Europe and Africa

Europe:

• PVGIS-SARAH database: High accuracy for European regions

• MeteoNorm: Widely used in European projects

• SolarGIS: Provides high-accuracy solar data and PV performance analysis

North America:

• NREL National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB): U.S. solar radiation and weather data for energy modeling.

• TMY3 datasets: Hourly typical weather data for long-term solar simulations.

• Canadian Weather for Energy Calculations (CWEC): Canadian climate data for solar and energy performance analysis.

Asia:

• Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA): Japan's official weather data for solar energy analysis.

• Indian Meteorological Department (IMD): India's climate data for solar and renewable energy studies.

• China Meteorological Administration (CMA): China's meteorological data for solar resource assessment.

Australia:

• Australian Bureau of Meteorology: Australia's weather data for energy and climate applications.

• Australian Solar Energy Information System (ASEIS): Solar radiation data for Australian renewable energy projects.

Best practices for data validation:

1. Use multiple sources when possible

2. Compare with ground measurements if available

3. Minimum 10-year historical data recommended

4. Consider local microclimates and terrain effects
   

For bankable projects, it is generally recommended to:

1. Use at least two independent sources

2. Get site-specific measurements for at least 1 year

3. Have third-party validation of the data

4. Consider uncertainty analysis in yield calculations
   

 

Question 9: How to Conduct Preliminary Design for Agri-PV Projects

Designing an Agri-PV system requires careful attention to meeting local regulations and ensuring the layout accommodates both solar energy production and agricultural activities. 

From a system design perspective, proper row spacing is essential to provide sufficient clearance for agricultural machinery to operate efficiently, such as tractors, irrigation equipment, and harvesters.

Additionally, the structure design must adhere to local requirements and land-use policies, which may dictate minimum heights, spacing, and accessibility requirements.

The system design should also consider livestock integration, with appropriate panel height and support structures to allow safe grazing underneath.

By balancing these factors, the design can achieve a functional and compliant setup that supports both energy generation and agricultural operations.

 

Question 10: How Can I Run Preliminary Designs With Bifacial Panels?

Running preliminary designs with bifacial solar panels requires a combination of proper software tools, accurate input data, and specific considerations unique to bifacial technology. Below are the key steps and factors to consider:

1. Use Software Supporting Bifacial Simulations Like Glint Solar

2. Albedo

     - Measure or estimate the ground reflectivity for the site.
     - Typical albedo values:

• • Grass: 0.2–0.3

  • Sand: 0.3–0.5

  • Snow: 0.7–0.9

3. Terrain and Layout:

     - Include terrain features and tilt angles in your model.
     - Bifacial panels are sensitive to shading and height from the ground.

4. Weather Data:

     - Use high-quality solar irradiation data, including diffuse and direct components.

5. Define Bifacial Panel Parameters

     - Bifaciality factor:

• • Usually provided by manufacturers, typically 0.7–0.85 (rear-side performance relative to the front side).

     - Height above ground:

• • Higher mounting improves rear-side exposure and increases bifacial gain. Typical heights: 1–1.5 meters.

     - Row spacing and GCR:

• • Lower Ground Coverage Ratios (GCRs) improve rear-side performance by reducing inter-row shading.

6. Set Up Simulation Parameters

     - Model rear-side contribution:

• • Input albedo and bifaciality factor into the software.

  • Account for shading and reflection effects.

     - Tracker or fixed-tilt design:

• • Single-axis trackers are commonly used with bifacial panels for higher gains, but fixed-tilt systems may be more economical for specific projects.

     - Backside shading losses:

• • Include obstructions like inverter pads, mounting structures, or adjacent rows in the shading model.

7. Run Simulations

     - Perform simulations to calculate energy yield, considering:

• Rear-side contributions.

• Shading and diffuse light impact.

• Seasonal variations.

     - Compare results to equivalent monofacial designs to quantify bifacial gains.

By leveraging bifacial-specific parameters and optimizing the design layout, you can achieve realistic and efficient preliminary designs. Accurate modeling of rear-side contributions and careful site-specific adjustments are essential to maximizing the benefits of bifacial technology in large-scale solar projects.

 

 

Solar Design Tools: What Most Developers Are Getting Wrong

Utility-scale solar development is a high-stakes game. The margins are tight, timelines are shrinking, and competition is fiercer than ever. Yet, many developers are still using outdated tools that slow down progress, inflate costs, and ultimately leave money on the table. It’s not just about hitting deadlines—it’s about delivering a high-performing, cost-efficient system that maximizes ROI.

 

The Silent Project Killers: Outdated Workflows

Let’s face it: relying on old GIS software and initial preliminary design done in AutoCAD isn't just inefficient—it’s risky. When the pressure to deliver is on, these tools create unnecessary bottlenecks that kill momentum. Here’s why:

• Lost precision: You may think you’ve nailed the design with basic GIS data, but subtle changes in terrain or slopes can drastically impact tracker performance, panel efficiency, and energy yield. And when those nuances aren’t caught early, they show up as costly surprises later.

• Wasted time: Developers can spend weeks going back and forth to get the layout just right. Each round of manual updates delays the next phase of development, whether that’s securing permits, signing contracts, or mobilizing teams.

• Unnecessary rework: Every time you get a layout “wrong,” it forces additional work in the field, on the design board, and in the engineering department. The iterative process eats away at valuable time and resources.

 

The Hidden Bottleneck in Solar Preliminary Design Workflows

Every developer’s been there: Solar preliminary design often feels like navigating a maze of tools, processes, and transitions. Each step—mapping, analysis, and reporting—adds complexity and manual handoffs between systems cause delays and errors.

 

The Old Preliminary Design Workflow: Where Efficiency, Speed, and Accuracy Breaks Down

GIS Mapping – Initial Land Assessment

Tool: ArcGIS 
Purpose: Identify potential sites based on proximity, exclusion zones, and topographical constraints.
Bottleneck: Sourcing and exporting GIS data to external tools for terrain analysis.

Terrain Analysis – Elevation & Slope

Tool: Google Earth Pro
Purpose: Assess land usability based on slopes, elevation, and obstacles.
Bottleneck: Manual mapping and importing into design software, leading to data mismatches.

Site Design & Layout – Planning Buildable Areas

Tool: AutoCAD
Purpose: Design initial layouts for panel placement, access roads, and infrastructure.
Bottleneck: Complex tool that can only be used by engineers, hence, developers have to rely on engineers to create and update preliminary designs. This dependency creates bottlenecks and slows down project development.

Yield Analysis – Energy Predictions

Tool: PVsyst, outsourced to engineers
Purpose: Model energy outputs, simulate shading impacts, and validate economic feasibility.
Bottleneck: Data duplication and re-entry, increasing risk of errors.

Report Generation – Packaging Insights for Stakeholders

Tool: Excel & PDF Tools
Purpose: Compile findings into reports for decision-making.
Bottleneck: Manual formatting and discrepancies between design and yield data.

3D Simulation – Visualizing the Site

Tool: AutoCAD or outsourced to engineers/consultants
Purpose: Creating realistic 3D models of the site for detailed analysis and landowner presentations.
Bottleneck: Outsourcing 3D simulations to consultants or engineers introduces delays, as well as the risk of misalignment with the actual design. This step often takes days or even weeks.

By the time you’ve moved from one step to the next, you’re already behind schedule. Each handoff introduces potential errors, discrepancies in data, and delays that kill productivity. 

• Slope failures: A flat grade on a 2D map may hide critical microtopographical challenges. A tracker could behave differently than expected, and all that ground you’ve gained in project planning starts to slip away.

• Shading surprises: Forget to factor in seasonal shading early enough, and suddenly you're looking at panels underperforming and operational costs rising. By the time you notice, the damage is done.

• Slow approvals: Every time you go back to engineers for layout revisions, you lose precious time—time that could be spent on negotiations or moving forward with permits.

 

The True Cost of Delays: An Industry Perspective

Let’s say you’re working on a 150 MW project, and due to inefficiencies in your preliminary design process, you end up losing three weeks of design time. Now, imagine this:

• $100,000+ in increased soft costs (engineering, project management, etc.)

• Delayed cash flows: Missed deadlines lead to delays in permitting and grid connections. In turn, this pushes back revenue by several months, costing you even more money.

• Lost opportunities: The industry is growing fast, and your competitors are likely closing deals on projects that didn’t face these bottlenecks.

The numbers add up quickly. But, what if you could streamline that design phase and start generating returns earlier?

 

The Shift to an Integrated GIS and Preliminary Design Tool

Leading developers know that their traditional tools aren’t cutting it anymore. The future lies in integrated platforms that combine GIS data, terrain modeling, layout optimization, and yield analysis all in one. This shift isn’t just about making things “faster”—it’s about smart design that makes every second count.

Here’s why it’s necessary:

Better Design, Faster: The sooner you can catch mistakes—like hidden slopes or drainage patterns—the less time you waste on corrections down the line. Instead of working in silos, integrated tools allow you to assess and optimize your design in real time. The result? You can accelerate timelines all while improving accuracy.

Maximizing Site Potential: When you know the terrain inside and out from the very beginning, you can extract every ounce of energy potential from the site. Developers who use integrated tools can boost energy yield predictions which translates to a higher chance of securing financing.

 

 

The Glint Solar Way: Faster, Smarter, and Seamless Solar Preliminary Design

In the traditional solar design workflow, developers are bogged down by delays, errors, and inefficiencies from manual handoffs, outsourcing, and system fragmentation. These bottlenecks cause extended timelines, higher costs, and reduced project success rates.

The Glint Solar Solution: Streamlined Workflow

With Glint Solar, developers experience a seamless, integrated workflow that combines all the necessary tools and data into a single platform. The result? Faster decisions, fewer errors, and better project outcomes.

 

Step 1: GIS Mapping With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: ArcGIS ❌

Glint Solar advantage: Centralized data layers are pre-loaded, multi-country data, curated specifically for solar development, and integrated with GIS tools. Developers can instantly access all data without juggling multiple platforms or waiting on external datasets, reducing errors and maximizing control.

In addition, Glint Solar’s parcel search tool gives developers the ability to search by considering key parameters like land size, topography, and proximity to grid infrastructure, making the process smoother and more efficient.

 

Step 2: Terrain Analysis With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: Google Earth Pro ❌

Glint Solar advantage: No need to export data to other software—terrain analysis is integrated in Glint Solar and ready to use. Developers can directly assess usability without leaving the tool, ensuring data consistency and eliminating errors.

 

Step 3: Site Preliminary Design and Layout With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: AutoCAD ❌

Glint Solar advantage: Glint Solar enables solar developers to pre-design and analyze sites with engineering-approved settings on their own, including the ability to draw polygons, roads, exclusions, and grid connections. Developers can design layouts 20X faster, make design changes without waiting on engineers, and obtain accurate buildable areas from the start. This reduces dependency on engineers, allowing them to focus on later-stage tasks.

 

Step 4: Yield Analysis With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: PVsyst 

Glint Solar advantage: While PVsyst remains essential for bankable yield analysis, Glint Solar streamlines the process by making yield analysis instant. Glint Solar enables developers to assess different scenarios without waiting on engineers or external consultants. Energy production is assessed using detailed calculations based on 30-minute intervals over the past 15 years, providing a highly accurate representation of future output.

Glint Solar’s energy yield estimates align closely with PVsyst, varying between 0% and -2.2%, with typical deviations of -1.23% to 0.02%. Our algorithms deliver consistent results across all locations, backed by comprehensive technical documentation. 

 

Step 5: Report Generation With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: Excel & PDF ❌

Glint Solar advantage: Report is pre-populated with all relevant project data, including energy output predictions, project maps, and 3D visualizations. Developers can generate reports in seconds, reducing the administrative burden and ensuring that the right stakeholders always have up-to-date, actionable insights.

 

Step 6: 3D Simulation With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: External consultants or AutoCAD ❌

Glint Solar advantage: Developers can visualize layouts in 3D, create 3D renderings instantly, and share them with landowners, communities, and municipalities. This speeds up communication and helps build trust from the get-go. No more waiting on consultants or engineers for 3D simulations—everything is done in-house, saving both time and costs.

 

Step 7: Shading Scene Export With Glint Solar

Old workflow tool: AutoCAD plugins ❌

Glint Solar advantage: Glint Solar simplifies the shading scene export process by allowing engineers to directly export shading scenes into PVsyst using the .PVC file format. This means no more manual data transfers or complex workflows between tools like AutoCAD and PVsyst. The .PVC file includes all the necessary information, such as module tables and their relative position based on terrain, ensuring accurate simulations in PVsyst. This not only cuts export time by half, but also reduces errors and allows engineers to focus on high-priority tasks instead of spending hours on data setup.

 

The Glint Solar Advantage: Streamlining the Pre-Permit Process

By using Glint Solar, developers no longer face the fragmentation and inefficiencies of the old process. Centralized data access, streamlined design tools, and instant report generation give developers the autonomy they need to drive projects forward quickly and accurately. From GIS mapping and terrain analysis to energy yield predictions and shading scene export to PVsyst, Glint Solar simplifies and accelerates every step in the pre-permit stage, giving your team more control and reducing reliance on multiple, complex tools.

With Glint Solar, the process is no longer clunky and disjointed - it’s fast, efficient, and future-proof.

 

The Power of Engineering-Approved Autonomy for Business Developers

So, how do you solve this? The key is giving developers more autonomy with engineering-approved design and analysis tools. It’s not about replacing your engineers or cutting corners—it’s about giving you the ability to make more accurate design decisions faster.

With the right tools, you can:

• Design Faster: By automating basic design tasks, you eliminate the need for endless iterations. You’re no longer waiting on engineers to tweak layouts or models—you can make decisions in real-time and keep moving forward.
• Get Accurate Energy Yield Predictions: With integrated tools, your predictions are built on solid, engineering-approved data. No more guessing or waiting for the next step to see if you hit the mark.
• Export to PVsyst in Half the Time and Half the Cost: Once your preliminary design is set, you can directly export it into PVsyst, keeping your models in sync without the manual data entry. This integration eliminates the risk of errors and saves you even more time and money.

 

The Future of Solar Preliminary Design: Empowering Developers to Succeed With Glint Solar

Preliminary design is the cornerstone of any successful utility-scale solar project, and it’s clear that precision in this phase can directly impact profitability and project timelines. However, with the challenges posed by complex terrain, interconnection conditions, and the need for accurate yield predictions, the path to a successful design is often riddled with inefficiencies and delays.

But the tide is turning. Thanks to modern tools like Glint Solar, developers can now eliminate much of the guesswork and uncertainty that historically plagued the pre-permit phase. By integrating GIS mapping, terrain analysis, site design, and shading scene exports, Glint Solar empowers teams to design and analyze projects quickly, with engineering-approved settings that ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Whether it's simplifying and accelerating data analysis or providing detailed 3D simulations for better visualization, the Glint Solar platform equips developers with the autonomy they need to drive projects forward faster and more cost-effectively. No longer are developers held back by outdated workflows, slow design iterations, or fragmented data. With Glint Solar, you can optimize the entire preliminary design process—from land identification to yield predictions—enabling teams to move forward with confidence and speed.

The future of solar project development lies in streamlining workflows, minimizing errors, and maximizing efficiency at every stage. With Glint Solar, you're not just accelerating design—you're paving the way for more successful, sustainable solar projects. Ready to elevate your project development process? Let’s take your design process from good to great.