Develop utility-scale ground mount projects and carport systems in Virto.MAX by configuring custom rack systems
To initiate your ground-mount project, begin by accurately defining the site’s surface area once your project specifications are set. Select the Surface tool, then choose either the rectangle or polygon option to outline the perimeter where you intend to position PV rack structures.
Next, add obstacles by selecting the Obstacle feature and choosing a geometry type—rectangle, polygon, circle, or line. Define the obstacle’s ground alignment, set the height, and specify the offset zone as required.
Click Next at the bottom right of the interface. The Module Layout feature will then be displayed, allowing you to select the surface area for your layout. If your project includes only one surface, proceed directly. Next, continue to Module Selection. Here, you can use the filter icon to search for a specific module. If your preferred module is not listed, you have the option to add it manually or upload a .pan file.
In the Mounting System step, create your racking configuration by selecting the option with the plus (+) icon to add a new system. Complete all required parameters, including system setup, orientation, number of columns and rows, tilt angle, and any additional specifications. For carport designs, select the East-West system setup and activate the Inverted setting next to the tilt angle. Once saved, your racking configuration will be available for use in future projects.
Next, specify your desired Row Pitch and Rack Spacing for this layout in the Pitch section.
In the Azimuth alignment section, you will find three alignment options for your layout. The first option aligns the longest side of the module with a border of your defined surface; after selecting this, choose which border to align to directly on the drawing. The second option functions similarly, but aligns the shortest side of the module to your selected border. The third option enables manual orientation—use the compass tool below to set a precise azimuth angle for your layout.
You can place racks automatically using the Autofill feature, which populates the entire defined surface area, or manually designate specific areas for rack placement with the Free Size option, allowing precise control over the installation footprint.
Once you have placed the racks, you can edit the layout. Select the Select Modules option from the top ribbon and use your cursor to choose one or multiple racks using the window selection tool. A small toolbar with three icons will appear below the Select Modules option—these allow you to Move, Duplicate, or Delete the selected racks. To keep adding racks, use the Add Modules option located next to this toolbar.
Review the shadow analysis tool to evaluate potential shading impacts on your project layout. For a comprehensive summary of your project parameters and configuration, explore the Project Overview feature next.