Solar Design
The solar system design process usually takes the following into account:
- Your needs and requirements (e.g. location, aesthetics, financials, goals)
- Geographic location (generally, closer to the equator, the better)
- Orientation (generally, south facing is better in the northern hemisphere)
- Roof Area (the more usable roof area, at least sufficient for required number of panels, facing south, the better; less area will be required if higher efficiency panels are used)
- Roof Condition (roof needs to be able to support the various forces resulting from the solar panels, as well as maintain integrity during and after the mount installation process)
- Shading (clear, unobstructed access to the sun is preferred)
- Tilt (usually the tilt is that of the roof but, if adjustable, the location latitude minus about 12 degrees)
- Roof Type (solar panels can be installed on almost every roof type using appropriate mounts)
- Electric Main Panel sizing and breaker slot(s) availability
- Selecting solar panel physical size, power output, and quantity based on production desired, environmentals, and cost
- Selecting inverter quantity and type based on electrical characteristics
- Mounting and railing
- Clearance between roof and panels (to allow proper air circulation)
- Wiring gauge and length
- Roof loading
- Roof obstructions such as chimneys or vents
- Building codes
- Layout and routing of panels, inverters, junction boxes, cut-off switches, wiring, grounding poles, and breakers