*3.3. PV Software*

PV estimation models are generally used to estimate the expected energy output of a PV system. These models need specific input parameters such as meteorological conditions of the location, system design details, and definitions of the main components used. A variety of software for the simulation of PV systems is available in the market, including PVsyst, PVSOL, and others. PVsyst, developed at the University of Geneva, is one of the most common modeling software tools used in the PV industry to simulate the performance of grid-connected or stand-alone PV systems and calculate their energy yield. PVsyst allows the definition of meteorological databases from many different sources and formats, as well as on-site measured data [41]. On the other hand, PVSOL is a German software developed by Valentine Software [27] for dynamic simulation with 3D visualization and detailed shading analysis of photovoltaic systems. PVSOL gives customers the best return on their investment by visualizing systems, and it can perform economic and performance analysis with comprehensive reports.
