Sim4Sun is a doctoral research project funded under the Win4Doc programme, focusing on the development and application of advanced computational methods for the simulation and optimisation of complex photovoltaic systems. The project addresses PV configurations that require detailed 3D modelling and large-scale parametric analysis, including bifacial PV, agrivoltaic systems and building-integrated photovoltaics. 

A central focus of Sim4Sun is the use of GPU-accelerated 3D simulation techniques, building on the development of LuSim 3D, to enable efficient analysis of complex geometries and interactions. The project aims to move beyond single-scenario simulations and to support batch-mode analyses involving a large number of design configurations, operating scenarios and boundary conditions. 

Within this framework, Sim4Sun investigates multi-parameter optimisation problems, where photovoltaic performance, economic indicators and, when relevant, agricultural constraints are analysed jointly. This includes the systematic exploration of design variables such as system geometry, layout, tracking strategies and operating assumptions, with the objective of identifying robust and well-balanced solutions rather than single-point optima. 

The project also places strong emphasis on the quantification, propagation and traceability of uncertainties throughout the modelling and optimisation process. By explicitly tracking how uncertainties associated with inputs, modelling assumptions and external conditions influence simulation outputs and optimisation results, Sim4Sun contributes to a more transparent and credible assessment of PV system performance and bankability. 

Overall, Sim4Sun aims to strengthen LuciSun’s capabilities in advanced PV system optimisation under realistic constraints. By combining high-performance computing, detailed 3D modelling and uncertainty-aware analysis, the project supports the development of computationally efficient methods suited to complex PV applications and directly informs LuciSun’s software development, technical advisory activities and training programmes.