Selection of installation locations for residential solar energy systems

The selection of the installation location for residential solar energy systems is of vital importance, as it directly affects the system's power generation efficiency, service life and safety. The following is a detailed explanation from two aspects: different installation scenarios and key considerations:

Roof installation

Orientation: In the Northern Hemisphere, solar systems installed on south-facing rooftops usually achieve the best power generation effect. This is because the south-facing roof can receive relatively abundant direct sunlight for most of the day. Taking most areas in our country as an example, south-facing roofs can enable solar panels to receive relatively uniform and strong sunlight during the day, thereby ensuring a higher power generation capacity. If the roof faces eastward or westward, although it can still generate electricity, the power generation capacity will decrease. For example, the roof facing east can receive better light in the morning, but the light will gradually weaken in the afternoon. The roof facing west is the opposite. The light is stronger in the afternoon and weaker in the morning.

Tilt Angle: The tilt Angle of the solar panel should be related to the local latitude. Generally speaking, when the tilt Angle is close to the local latitude, the total amount of solar radiation received by solar panels in a year is the largest. For example, in an area with a latitude of 30°, the tilt Angle of the solar panel can be set at around 30°. However, appropriate adjustments can also be made according to the season and actual needs. In winter, the solar altitude Angle is relatively low. Appropriately increasing the tilt Angle can increase the amount of sunlight received by the solar panels. In summer, the solar altitude Angle is relatively high. Appropriately reducing the tilt Angle is more conducive to power generation.

Obstruction situation: There should be no tall buildings, trees or other obstructions around the roof. Shading can seriously affect the power generation efficiency of solar panels, as even partial shading can lead to a significant drop in the output power of the solar panels. For instance, if a leaf falls on a solar panel, it may cause the solar cells in that area to malfunction, thereby affecting the power generation performance of the entire solar panel. Before installation, it is necessary to carefully observe the environment around the roof to ensure that the solar panels are not blocked at different times of the day.

Roof structure: It is necessary to ensure that the roof structure can bear the weight of the solar system. Different types of roof structures (such as flat roofs and pitched roofs) require different installation methods. For flat roofs, it is usually necessary to build brackets to install solar panels, and the brackets should have sufficient strength and stability. For pitched roofs, solar panels can be directly installed by taking advantage of the slope of the roof, but it is necessary to ensure a firm connection with the roof to prevent them from being blown off in bad weather such as strong winds.

Ground installation

Site openness: When choosing ground installation, the site should be spacious enough without any obstacles blocking sunlight. Similar to roof installation, shading can significantly reduce power generation efficiency. The ground installation site should be far away from buildings, fences, utility poles, etc., to ensure that the solar panels can fully receive sunlight throughout the day. For instance, installing a solar energy system on an open farmland or wasteland can minimize shading and increase power generation to the greatest extent.

Geological conditions: It is necessary to investigate the geological conditions of the installation site to ensure that the ground can bear the weight of the solar energy system and the fixation of the installation brackets. If the geological conditions are poor, such as soft soil or underground rivers, it may cause the installation brackets to sink or tilt, affecting the stability and safety of the solar energy system. In this case, foundation treatment is required, such as soil reinforcement and pile driving.

Drainage conditions: A good drainage system is crucial for ground-mounted solar systems. If the drainage of the site is not smooth, it may lead to water accumulation during the rainy season, soaking the solar panels and installation brackets and shortening the service life of the equipment. Installation can be carried out on a site with higher terrain and good drainage, or drainage ditches can be set up around the site to ensure that rainwater can be discharged in time.

Other considerations

Maintenance convenience: The installation location should be convenient for daily maintenance and inspection. Solar energy systems may encounter malfunctions during operation and require regular inspection and maintenance. If the installation location is too concealed or difficult to reach, it will increase the difficulty and cost of maintenance. For instance, installing a solar energy system in a corner of the roof or a remote area on the ground may cause inconvenience to maintenance personnel.

Safety: It is necessary to ensure that the installation location does not pose any safety hazards to personnel or property. For instance, avoid installing solar systems above areas where people frequently move around to prevent solar panels or brackets from falling and injuring people. At the same time, it is necessary to maintain a safe distance from power facilities, gas pipelines, etc., to avoid safety accidents.