1
Create a project
A new project automatically creates the first version. That gives the calculation a clear place to live before any scenario inputs are added.
How GridGap works
Start with the loads. Build the system from there.
GridGap begins with the appliances that need power, then guides the user through scenario choice, operating hours, system inputs, calculation results and review notes.
Guided setup is available when you want a starting point. Experienced users can open a blank scenario instead.
One project, one clear path
The complete workflow in six stages.
Most people can complete a first calculation without touching every technical field. The structure stays the same whether you are planning a small boat system or a larger AC backup installation.
2
Build the appliance list
Select appliances from the library, add quantities and review defaults such as running watts, surge factor, duty cycle and power factor. Other appliances can be added when the library does not contain the exact item.
3
Choose a scenario
Select the system type that matches the proposed architecture: AC, DC or mixed AC/DC, with battery-only or solar-assisted supply.
4
Assign operating hours
Each scenario creates load groups where the user enters how long each appliance runs. Solar scenarios separate daytime solar loads from no-sun or night-time loads.
5
Complete the system inputs
Guided setup seeds useful starting values from the load data. Blank setup leaves those values open for users who already know what they want to enter.
6
Calculate and review
GridGap calculates the relevant requirements, shows warnings and keeps the assumptions visible so the result can be reviewed instead of treated as a black box.
The master appliance list
Describe the load before you describe the system.
The appliance list is the starting point for the whole calculation. Add the equipment that will run, set the quantity and decide whether the supplied defaults are suitable.
- Library appliances can include defaults for watts, surge, duty cycle and power factor.
- Users can override defaults when the real equipment specification is known.
- The same appliance list supports the scenario load groups that follow.
Two ways to begin
Use the guided path or begin with an empty scenario.
Both routes still use the appliance list and load groups. The difference is whether GridGap fills starting values from the load data.
Guided setup
Useful for users who know what they want to run but do not yet know the battery, inverter, solar or distribution figures to enter.
Blank scenario
Better for users who already have their own assumptions, equipment targets or technical figures and do not want seeded guidance values.
Simple or Technical
Simple mode keeps the main requirements visible. Technical mode adds deeper control over assumptions and installation-related calculations.
Calculation and review
The first result is a review point, not the end of the job.
GridGap can calculate batteries, panels, inverter sizes, charger requirements, DC distribution needs, wiring-related outputs, interconnectors, battery and solar series or parallel arrangements, warnings and information about the proposed setup when the relevant inputs are present.
The result is still preliminary planning guidance. Final equipment selection, protection, wiring and installation decisions need qualified review.
Projects and versions
Keep the result you trust. Branch when the question changes.
Version 1
Battery-only base case
Keep the original calculation available for review.
VS
Version 2
Solar-assisted option
Change the design without overwriting the earlier result.
Build the first version around one real use case.
Once that version calculates cleanly, create another version when you want to test a different design or operating assumption.