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Rooftop Solar Siting Considerations

Rooftop Solar Siting Considerations
Careful consideration should be given to roof spacing, orientation, tilt and shading before you determine the range of systems you can install. Here are the main factors that will influence the performance and profitability of your system: 1) Roof Spacing Most urban rooftops can accommodate a 1 kW system, each KW will occupy a space between 6 and 8 square meters(m2) or 64 - 88 square feet(ft2) depending on the panels chose. For example Sanyo panels cover 64ft versus Sharp panels at 88 ft2 per KW. The following is a list of standard space requirements for larger systems: 1 2 3 5 kW, kW, kW, kW, 64 - 88 ft2 depending on panels chosen (6 - 8 m2) 129 - 178 ft2 (12 - 16 m2) 193 - 264 ft2 (18 -24 m2) 322 - 416 ft2 (30 m2)

2) Orientation and Tilt What direction should a system face? At what angle should it be positioned? The higher latitudes of Canada present us with a range of sunpaths throughout the year: the sun travels high across the sky in summer months and low in the sky during winter months. The goal of positioning a fixed solar array (either rooftop or ground-level) is to maximize direct sunlight by considering two main variables: orientation and tilt. Orientation refers to the compass direction the solar array will face. In Canada, a system positioned south, southeast or southwest will receive the most direct sunlight year round. Other roof orientations (such as ones that face east or west) introduce sunlight limitations. However, inventive approaches can be used to maximize output from a variety of roof orientations. Tilt refers to the angle as which a solar panel is positioned in relation to a horizontal surface. In Toronto, the best tilt angle of a solar system is between 25 and 45 , and a corresponding roof angle is ideal for mounting a solar array. In consideration of flat and low-angle roofs, a mounting structure can be constructed to elevate the solar array to an ideal angle.

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3) Shading Roof shading must be considered before investing in a solar PV system. Rooftop features such as chimneys, dormers or plumbing vents can cast shadows on portions of your roof throughout the day and limit potential output from your PV system. Shading from larger features (trees, buildings) must also be considered. A majority of city dwellers will seldom experience full sun conditions from sunrise to sunset given the density of structures around your home. What is important, however, is an abundance of sunlight on your PV system during the main hours of the day (approx. 10am to 5pm) when the sun is higher in the sky and its direct rays increase the electrical output and efficiency of your system. PV modules produce electricity in proportion to the amount of sunlight falling on them. With a midday sun and high direct rays, a solar array will produce their rated power . Reduced sunlight caused by clouds will lessen the electricity generated. For example, a cloudy sky with an occasional blue patch will be equivalent to about 50% of your systems peak potential. A cloudy day with rain will be equivalent to between 10 and 20% your potential. Therefore, although direct sunlight is best, diffused radiation via snow, water and the atmosphere can also be captured. Solar technicians are experienced in anticipating these obstructions and can help to design a solar PV system that will work best with your roofs particular conditions.

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4) Weather and Maintenance Compared to other Canadian regions, southern Ontario experiences average to above-average conditions for solar potential . Although we arent blessed with as many sunlight hours as places like California, Ontario has far more potential for solar energy than currently exists. For example, Torontos annual potential for solar PV is 1161 kwh/kw. Berlin, Germany, the worlds leader in solar energy production, ranks considerably lower at 848 kwh/kw. Therefore, Toronto has 38% more potential for solar PV than Germany, a country leading the way in solar production and installed service. Solar systems are built to endure and thrive throughout Canadas cold winters. Solar panels react from the energy inherent in sunlight; as a result, colder weather in the winter doesnt limit the energy that can be captured from the sun. As a result, solar panels can produce just as much power on a clear, cold winter day than on a mid summers days. Technical considerations also allow solar systems to thrive in colder temperatures. Silicon cells on solar panels, much like the silicon parts in your computer, have the tendency to overheat and lose productivity if too hot. Therefore, winter weather can help to keep your panels cool and increase the conductivity of the metal parts. Since there are no mechancial moving parts, most solar arrays dont require maintenance for long periods of time. Dust and dirt that collects on the panels is often washed off by occasional rainfall (if it is convenient, you can hose off your panels a few times a year). During the winter, solar panels capture heat during the day and any melting snow creates a water slick. Additional snow will slide off the angled panels and continue to produce power! Rooftop panels are often anchored into ceiling rafters using secure mounting systems that withstand seasonal winds.
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