Experienced photovoltaic contractors design solar panel systems for optimal performance. To accomplish this goal, a number of factors are taken into consideration.
Rooftop orientation, tilt and shading are of particular concern, as all three can have a significant effect on energy production. Here’s a look at how the Nationwide Solar team positions solar panels to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
Orientation
Due south is the ideal orientation for solar panel systems in the Intermountain West, but not every home has a south-facing roof.
The solution here? According to the Department of Energy, a rooftop solar array can face up to 45 degrees away from due south without causing a noticeable drop in power output. Therefore, orientation isn’t always a problem – but when a roof faces north or the usable space points too far east or west, photovoltaic panels can be installed on a carport or outbuilding.
Tilt
Solar panels are typically mounted flat against the surface of a rooftop, but homes don’t always have roofing that is angled to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
The solution here? Research has shown that the optimal tilt angle for a rooftop solar array is roughly equal to the latitude of the location. If a roof is pitched at an angle that’s less than the local latitude, professional contractors use special mounting brackets to properly tilt the photovoltaic panels so that they are positioned for optimal energy production.
Shading
Shade falling on solar panels can cause a drop in power output, and the impact can be immense when shade coves a rooftop array during peak sunlight hours.
The solution here? To understand the effects of shading at a specific location, experienced photovoltaic contractors use specialized tools and software to conduct a thorough analysis. The paths the sun travels during the course of the day and in different seasons are taken into account, and this information helps determine the best spot for a solar array.
Thinking About Installing Solar Panels?
By creating your own electricity, you’ll be lowering your energy bills – and you no doubt want to see those bills go down by as much as possible. For that to happen, you’ll need to hire an experienced professional photovoltaic contractor.
The friendly and knowledgeable team at Nationwide Solar, the leading solar installation company in Utah, Idaho, Oregon and Washington, have the expertise to design an efficient and effective rooftop solar array. We understand how to position photovoltaic panels for maximum energy production, and we only use high-quality, American-made components in our residential solar installation projects.
If you’re ready to trade your rising energy bills for an affordable rooftop array, we’re the company to call. For a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the cost of solar panel installation, give us a call or use our online contact form today.
