Site Assessment and Planning
Location Selection
Choosing the right location for your solar panels is crucial for maximizing energy production. Here are key factors to consider:
- Sun Exposure: Choose areas that receive maximum sunlight throughout the day.
- Avoiding Shade: Assess potential sources of shade, including trees, buildings, and other structures.
- Roof Considerations: For rooftop installations, evaluate the roof's condition, age, and structural integrity.
- Ground Installations: If roof installation isn't feasible, consider ground-mounted systems.
- Future Changes: Consider potential future developments that might affect sun exposure.
Sunlight Analysis
A thorough sunlight analysis helps in optimizing your solar panel placement and estimating energy production:
- Sun Path: Understand how the sun's path changes throughout the year in your location.
- Solar Irradiance Measurement: Use tools like solar pathfinder or digital apps to measure solar irradiance at your location.
- Panel Orientation: In most cases, panels should face true south in the northern hemisphere and true north in the southern hemisphere.
- Panel Tilt: The optimal tilt angle depends on your latitude and local climate.
Local Climate Considerations
Understanding your local climate is crucial for system design and performance expectations:
- Temperature Effects: High temperatures can actually reduce solar panel efficiency.
- Wind Loads: In areas prone to high winds or typhoons, robust mounting structures are essential.
- Seasonal Weather Patterns: Account for seasonal variations in your planning.
- Dust and Pollution: In dusty environments or areas with high air pollution, panels may require more frequent cleaning.
- Humidity and Corrosion: In humid coastal areas, choose components with good corrosion resistance.