HQ - Canada

545 Speedvale Avenue West

Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1K 1E6
E: inquire.ca@canadiansolar.com
www.canadiansolar.com

PVsyst 6 User-Guideline
Edit Time: 2015-01-05
Dear Valued Customer,

Thank you for choosing Canadian Solar. The aim of this letter is to inform you what to pay attention when simulating
Canadian Solar modules with PVsyst.

1. PV module PAN File

PAN file is a spreadsheet with all the mechanical and electrical parameters of the module that the software uses to
simulate the performance of the modules. It is therefore important to always use the latest version. Canadian Solar PAN
rd
files are 3 party verified and updated directly via PVsyst.

In order to have the latest version, please update your PVsyst database via the update tool incorporated in the PVsyst
program. The most recent data source PAN file have been updated in PVSYST 6.27 or higher version. We recommend
updating your PVsyst software and database frequently. For detailed instruction how to update the PVsyst database,
please refer to the PVsyst user manual.

2. Recommended modeling parameters for the detailed loss configuration

There are several model parameters in PVsyst which can be edited from the default settings to achieve more accurate
simulation results.

2.1. Thermal parameter

The thermal behavior of the field, which strongly influences the electrical performances, is determined by an
energy balance between ambient temperature and cell's heating up due to incident irradiance. These factors
depend on the mounting mode of the modules (ground mounted, roofing, facade, etc...).
The system should be simulated according to the mounting type used:
• “Free” mounted modules with air circulation
• Semi-integrated with air duct behind
• Integration with fully insulated back
Normally it is “Free” mounted modules with air circulation.

2.2. Ohmic loss

This loss is depending on the wire configuration and shall be decided by the system designer after evaluating
wiring length and cable type.

2.3. Module Quality- LID- Mismatch

2.3.1. Module efficiency loss

A negative number indicates a positive tolerance. In order to calculate this value the following formula shall be
used:
 HQ - Canada
545 Speedvale Avenue West
Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1K 1E6
E: inquire.ca@canadiansolar.com
www.canadiansolar.com

,
Module efficiency loss = ∗ 100%



As an example, the module efficiency loss rate of rated power 250W poly-Si modules should be defined as -1.0%.

2.3.2 LID – Light induced degradation

LID (Light Induced Degradation) is a loss of performances arising in the very first hours of exposition to the sun, with
crystalline modules.
The LID loss factor CSI suggest is 2.3% according to CSI limited warranty for standard photovoltaic module products.

2.3.3 Mismatch losses

The "Mismatch loss" is mainly due to the fact that in a string of modules (or cells), the lowest current drives the
current of the whole string.
For large MWp size systems, the mismatch loss shows good convergence, therefore CSI recommends using a loss
value of 1% for the Value ”Power loss at MPP”.

2.4 Soiling loss

This parameter estimates the annual energy loss associated with sediment build-up over time on the modules. As
this number strongly depends on the weather conditions, location of the project, number of washes per year and
the inclination of the installation, it has to be chosen by the system designer based on actual environment
conditions.

2.5 IAM loss

The IAM values are implemented into the PAN file and are based on tests by PV Evolution Labs. Please choose
“Uses definition of the PV modules”.

Canadian Solar is committed to continuous improvements in order to provide high quality products to our valued customers.
Due to ongoing innovation, research and product enhancement we reserve the right to make any adjustments to the
information contained herein at any time without notice. For further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at
support@canadiansolar.com.

Sincerely
Global Customer Service & Technical Support