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Array Mounting Options see image 1
Shading
Any shading from trees, neighbouring buildings or overhead cables can have an impact on the performance of the PV system. The system should therefore be sited to avoid shading as much as possible. To achieve maximum efficiency the whole PV array needs to be shade free. Modest shading will reduce the power of the PV array by about 20% and significant shading by about 40%
If partial shading occurs then a smaller system which is shade free may generate more electricity than a larger one in shade.
Example: a 16 module system that is shaded will produce 1590kWh/year, whereas an un-shaded 12 module system can produce 1987kWh/year.
A site survey carried out by our MCS Accredited Installers will ensure that your system is specified and positioned for optimal performance.
System Siting and Orientation see image 2
The location of the PV modules is very important in order to maximise the performance and energy yield from the system. The ideal site is south facing at an angle of between 30 & 40° so that the array receives the maximum amount of irradiation possible. However, other orientations such as south east or south west can be viable with a relatively low drop in expected performance, to that of south facing, as shown in the diagram above.
