- As the importance and benefits of solar energy become more widely known, the world progresses towards the maximum use of solar as a preferred resource.
To take up the maximum benefits of solar energy, it is advisable to incorporate solar resources into the design of your new home at the outset.
Here are a few building designing tips from JA Solar that you can consider while planning:
System Size
It is always advised that you do not oversize your system. Rather, if you anticipate an increase in electricity use in the future, install a modular system than can be increased in size when required. Have an expert solar installer analyse your current energy usuage. This can be done by studying your electricity bills for a a full 12 months (year round) or by temporarily installing an electricity use monitor sometines referred to as a digital watt meter or power meter. A kilowatt hour (kWh) is a measure of how much energy you’re using and your solar PV system can be sized accordingly.
Shade
It is the most obvious but the most pertinent point to be considered while designing the building with an aim to install solar panels. There must not be any obstacles or obstructions that can reduce the reach or intensity of solar energy.
Orientation
It is always advisable to design north-facing as much as possible so that your solar panels can get solar energy for the maximum time of the day. The orientation must preferable not be in a southerly direction as the system performance will be severly compromised.
Rooftop Strength
Installation of rooftop solar panels and their stand is a heavy task and it implies heavy weight on your roof. Therefore, the rooftop must be at least 6 inches to withstand the weight of the installation and keep your roof damage-free.
Wiring Connection
It is important to have PVC pipes of at least two-inch diameter installed running from the roof to the ground. It can be used for both earthing and solar wiring. Try to have your inverter as close to the solar array as possible as this will reduce the losses incurred when DC current produced by the solar panels is carried to the inverter.
These are a few important tips to be considered beforehand while designing a solar-friendly building to get maximum benefits from solar energy.
While setting up rooftop solar panels, it is important to consider the best in the market. JA Solar is a renowned name and a leading solar company that not only helps you in setting up panels but gives you a long-term warranty.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
