Panels can be installed anywhere on the roof (Read our article How are the panels installed on a roof? here) but in order to maximise the production and secure the array onto the roof, solar engineers consider the roof orientation, the shading and the exclusions zones.
Roof orientation
The north side gets more sunlight through the day. In order to maximize the energy production, the panels are most of the time installed on a north-facing roof. Depending on the locations, studies show that between 10 and 20% efficiency can be lost by not having a system facing North. However, if east or west-facing roofs still produce a large amount of energy especially in the morning and late afternoon.
Shading
Solar panels work the best in full sun. A shadow, even on only a part of the array can potentially lower the output of the whole system. If the roof is shaded by a neighbour’s house, a tree, a vent pipe or a split system outdoor unit engineers will work around that to minimize the shading issues.
Exclusion zones
Winds are stronger around the edges of the roof. In order to reduce the wind load, manufacturers of mounting system may determine “exclusion zones” where panels are not allowed. These zones are specific to each manufacturer and are calculated depending on factors like the wind region of the installation site, the height of the building, the terrain… Some manufacturers don’t require exclusion zones. In any case, panels shouldn’t extend beyond the edge of the roof. A quality installation will never look like this:
Installers need to follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturers to conform to the Australian Standards. Special constructions that don’t follow these requirements have to be signed off by a structural engineer. Installers also need to allow a certain space at the bottom of the roof so the rain flowing down the panels doesn’t overflow the gutter.
Are you interested in solar for your home or business? Contact our team of professionals to find the right system for your call 1300 782 217 or email sales@energis.com.au.
