April 29th 2025

VE Tech Tips - Using SunCast to Optimise PV Panel Placement

VE Tech Tips - Using SunCast to Optimise PV Panel Placement

The VE allows users to optimise the placement of PV panels, by evaluating solar exposure within SunCast, at any stage of the design process.

This VE Tech Tip explores how to use SunCast in the IESVE to visually assess whether or not PV panels have been positioned for optimum performance. It covers how to: 

  • Run a simulation for Solar Energy or Solar Exposure Analysis
  • Apply diffuse shading factors, or an analysis grid for greater detail
  • Consider different ways of viewing the results, for example in kWh/m2 or kWh
  • Apply thresholds, or change the date range to suit your requirements
  • Select different visualisation colours if desired

Watch the video below for an overview of using SunCast to optimise PV panel placement within the VE.

If you would like more hints and tips on using the VE, check out our VE Tech Tips playlist