Oversizing PV system for optimum PPA utilization

Hi Paul.. is there a way in SAM to simulate oversizing the PV system to maximize lifetime revenues ? One can size the system such that PPA utilization is 100% at Summer Peak TOD multiplier, but clippage losses are accepted during non-peak/winder TODs ?

Hello,

I think you are asking whether it is possible to "oversize" the photovoltaic array DC capacity relative to the inverter AC capacity to minimize installation cost while maximizing system AC output.

If that is your question, the answer is yes. You can either manually choose a number of modules per string and strings in parallel for the array that results in an array capacity that is greater than the inverter's capacity, or you can use the DC-to-AC ratio input along with a desired array capacity if you want SAM to size the system automatically.

This is only possible with the Flat Plate Photovoltaic model. The simpler PVWatts model assumes that the array DC capacity is equal to the inverter AC capacity.