How To Create A DC Solar + Battery + Distribution Scenario

Use this scenario when the loads are DC loads and solar is part of the system you want to model. The result needs to consider battery support, DC distribution, solar production, and solar controller requirements together.

When to use this scenario

This is the right fit when the version contains DC appliances only and solar is expected to support those loads or help recharge the battery.

It is useful for DC-led off-grid, mobile, marine, and equipment setups where the battery and DC distribution path remain central, but solar is no longer outside the modelled period.

Before you start

Check that the version does not contain AC appliances. If it does, GridGap will block the DC-only scenario. Use a mixed AC/DC solar scenario when both AC and DC loads belong in the same option.

Set up the scenario

In the Scenario editor, add the DC appliances first. Then choose DC - Solar + Battery + Distribution when selecting the scenario type.

The guided route creates the load groups, asks for the worst-case usage hours, and then uses Continue to Scenario Settings. GridGap will show that the scenario is ready before opening the starting settings. The blank route uses the blank scenario modal to open the same scenario type without guided starting defaults.

What to focus on

Review the battery and DC distribution assumptions first, then work through the solar inputs. Solar settings such as panel assumptions, sunshine hours, loss assumptions, and recharge choices can change the final panel and controller results quickly.

Be clear about what solar is expected to do. Supporting daytime DC loads is not the same as restoring a large share of overnight battery use.

Calculate and review

After calculation, review the overview, battery, DC distribution, solar, solar controller, charging, and warnings sections. If the solar side looks larger than expected, check the usage hours, sunshine assumptions, recharge target, and loss assumptions before changing panel size.