PV Prospector Plugin for QGIS v0.3

Overview

The PV Prospector Plugin is designed to help assess the solar photovoltaic (PV) installation potential across residential properties. This tool is aimed at local governments, planners, and renewable energy consultants.

Widgets Explained

  • ComboBox (cb_selectdata):
    • Purpose: Allows the user to select the layer they wish to query.

    • Usage: Use the dropdown to select a layer.

  • LineEdit (le_postcode):
    • Purpose: To enter a postcode to search for addresses.

    • Usage: Enter a valid postcode and hit 'Enter'.

  • ListWidget (listWidget_address):
    • Purpose: Lists addresses that match the postcode.

    • Usage: Double-click an address to zoom to it on the map.

  • LineEdit (le_showpvarea):
    • Purpose: Displays the PV area for the selected address.

    • Usage: This field is automatically populated when an address is selected.

How to Use the Plugin

  1. Select a Layer: Use the ComboBox (cb_selectdata) to select a data layer.

  2. Enter Postcode: Input a postcode in the LineEdit field (le_postcode) and press 'Enter'.

  3. Select Address: Double-click an address in the ListWidget (listWidget_address) to zoom to its location.

  4. View PV Area: The PV area for the selected address will be displayed in LineEdit (le_showpvarea).

Buttons

  • OK: Ok closes the PV Prospector dialog box and clears all settings.

  • Cancel: Cancel closes the dialog box and cancels the current operation.

  • Help: opens the plugin Help screen in the user's browser.

Refinements in v0.3

  • Responsive dialog ui: Resizing the dialog resizes the widgets neatly within the box.

  • Layer Selection Check: Only a vector layer can be selected.

  • Postcode validity Check: Postcodes can be entered in lower or mixed case. An error message will be displayed if the mid space is missing.