Help CenterFAQ
Frequently Asked Questions — General
Q: Why does SolarDim Pro recommend more panels than my Excel calculation? A: SolarDim Pro applies African thermal correction (+10–15% power on hot sites) and a default safety factor of 1.25. Your Excel likely used a fixed PR of 0.85 without thermal correction.
Q: Can I use SolarDim Pro offline in the field? A: Yes. SolarDim Pro is a PWA (Progressive Web App). Install it on your Android phone. It works without internet. Data syncs automatically when you reconnect.
Q: What does "PV coverage rate" mean in a hybrid system? A: It's the percentage of annual consumption covered by solar panels. An 80% rate means 80% of your usual electricity bill will be saved.
Thermal correction also applies in Europe, but with less impact. In Paris (22°C summer), thermal loss is 2.4% vs 15.2% in Bamako. SolarDim Pro calculates automatically based on site temperature.
Common mistakes
- Comparing the SolarDim Pro quote to an Excel calc with no PR or thermal correction
- Never updating the component price catalog
- Assuming the PWA requires a permanent internet connection