Abstract :
This study presents a means to extend the functionality of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in assessing distributed photovoltaic
(PV) potential in urban areas, via the new ArcGIS extension: PV Analyst. A methodology is proposed for coupling ArcGIS with
TRNSYS that enables the PV Analyst extension to use the capabilities of 4 and 5-parameter PV array performance models and the irradiance
components in TRNSYS for solar energy simulations in geospatial contexts. Because PV Analyst is embedded within the ArcMap
environment, part of ArcGIS software package, the strong capabilities of ArcGIS and other ArcGIS extensions such as 3D Analyst,
Spatial Analyst and Tracking Analyst can be fully utilized with PV Analyst’s functionalities. This paper describes the concept and details
of the extension development, as well as its application to the Pollock Commons area at the Pennsylvania State University.
2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
