In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the way we approach solar panel installations. Traditionally, solar panels were predominantly installed on south-facing roofs to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day. However, with advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of solar energy generation, the focus has shifted towards maximising energy efficiency through innovative installation techniques, such as east-west solar panel arrays.
East-west solar panel arrays, as the name suggests, involve the installation of solar panels on both the eastern and western sides of a roof. This approach allows for more balanced energy production throughout the day, capturing sunlight from sunrise to sunset. While the total energy production at any given moment may be lower compared to south-facing arrays, the overall energy generation throughout the day is optimised, leading to increased efficiency and potentially higher energy yields.
Advantages of east-west solar panel arrays:
Here are some key advantages and considerations associated with east-west solar panel arrays:
- Maximised Energy Production: By capturing sunlight from both the east and west, these arrays can generate a more consistent and prolonged energy output compared to traditional south-facing arrays. This is particularly beneficial in regions with variable weather patterns or shading issues.
- Reduced Peak Demand Impact: East-west arrays distribute energy production more evenly throughout the day, which can help reduce peak demand impact on the grid. This can be advantageous in areas where utilities charge higher rates during peak hours or impose demand charges.
- Optimal Use of Roof Space: In situations where south-facing roof space is limited or suboptimal due to obstructions or architectural constraints, east-west arrays offer a practical alternative. They make efficient use of available roof space, maximising the potential for solar energy generation.
- Enhanced Self-Consumption: With energy production spread out more evenly over the day, homeowners may have a better opportunity to consume more of the solar energy they generate on-site. This can lead to greater energy independence and reduced reliance on the grid.
- Installation Flexibility: East-west arrays can accommodate a variety of roof orientations, making them suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial properties. They also offer flexibility in system design, allowing for customization based on specific energy needs and space constraints.
What to consider when planning east-west solar panel arrays:
While east-west solar panel arrays offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider certain factors when planning and installing such systems:
- Roof Orientation and Tilt: The optimal orientation and tilt angle of east-west arrays may vary depending on factors such as location, climate and energy goals. A professional solar installer, such as the team at Sunlit Solar, can assess these factors to design an efficient system tailored to the specific property.
- Shading: Shading can significantly impact the performance of solar panels, particularly in east-west arrays where panels are installed on multiple roof planes. It’s essential to assess potential shading issues and implement mitigation strategies, such as tree trimming or the use of optimizers and micro-inverters.
- System Sizing and Configuration: Proper sizing and configuration are crucial to maximising the energy output and efficiency of east-west arrays. This may involve optimising the number and arrangement of panels to achieve the desired energy production while considering factors such as roof space availability and budget constraints.
In conclusion, east-west solar panel arrays represent a compelling alternative to traditional south-facing installations, offering enhanced energy production, reduced peak demand impact, and optimal use of roof space. With careful planning, professional installation and ongoing maintenance, these arrays can provide homeowners and businesses with a reliable and efficient source of clean energy for years to come.
Ready to harness the power of the sun with an east-west solar panel array? Contact Sunlit Solar today to learn more about how Sunlit Solar can help you maximize your energy efficiency and savings.
Phone: 01458 834 936
Email: info@sunlit-solar
Find out more: www.sunlit-solar.co.uk/