Sir! Solar Mein Itna Chalta Hai!” When to Reject a Site: The Truth About Shadow Analysis
Sir! Solar Mein Itna Chalta Hai!” When to Reject a Site: The Truth About Shadow Analysis
Site Assessment & Shadow Analysis – An important step before Rooftop Solar PV Installation.
According to MNRE, approximate 10 sq. meters “Shadow Free” area is required for 1 kWp Rooftop Solar PV Installation. The term “Shadow Free” is very important and in this blog we will be discussing about “Site Assessment and Shadow Analysis for Rooftop Solar PV Installation”.
Shadow is one of the factors that will affect the performance of Solar PV system.
Your Solar PV System Array should be designed such that Shadow will not fall on the Solar PV Panels. Shadow can be from parapet walls, tanks, structures, trees, inter row shadow and other objects.
There are many objects , like parapet walls, water tanks , O/D units of AC’s, Dish of antennas, Mummty etc. which can cause shadow. As, shown in the picture above, the objects that are situated at the South Direction of the building will cause shadow on the Solar PV System. So, the system should be designed such that it avoids the shadow of these objects.
Ideally, Solar PV Rooftop System should be designed such that no shadow falls on array, on the day with longest shadow (i.e. usually from 9am to 3pm, on December 21 in Northern Hemisphere). For Shadow analysis from nearby objects and inter rows of solar array, “Solar Path Finder” should be used at the time of Site Assessment.
The thumb rule says, that we should leave at least 1.5 to 2 times the Height of object (placed in South of the building), to avoid the Shadow effect on the PV modules. The same goes with Inter Row Spacing of the Solar PV Array, at least 1.5 to 2 times the Height of the Structure should be left in between the two rows, to avoid the Shadow effect.
Now all you need is to cross check the layout design of the Rooftop Solar PV System, as provided by the installer or need to clarify this with the installer, that what distance they had left to reduce the losses due to shadow.
If it is less than 1.5 to 2 times the Object Height, and if he says “Sir! Solar Mein Itna Chalta Hai!!”, then you surely needs to change your installer.
We’ll be talking on more such issues in our future blogs.
Suggested Articles
AVANCIS Pushes CIGS Thin-Film Solar Modules Beyond 20% Efficiency
AVANCIS achieves a breakthrough in solar technology, pushing CIGS thin-film modules beyond 20% efficiency for higher performance and energy output.
COP27: Harnessing Solar Energy for a Sustainable Future
COP27 is the latest in a long line of global climate conferences, which have been held regularly since 1994. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was created at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit.
Capex vs Opex Solar Model: Which is Better for Your Energy Needs?
Solar energy systems are becoming increasingly popular in homes and businesses around the world. With rising electricity costs, solar energy provides an attractive alternative to traditional energy sources.
India Solar Energy Policies: Key Updates and Government Initiatives
India is one of the leading countries in terms of solar energy development, having become the fastest-growing market for solar power globally.
The Rise of Clean Energy: Solar Energy Trends in 2023
The solar energy industry is on the rise, as the demand for clean and renewable energy sources continues to increase. 2023 is shaping up to be a big year for the solar energy sector, as new technologies and innovations are expected to drive growth and expand the reach of solar energy.
Industrial Solar Power: 7 Reasons to Make the Switch
Top 7 benefits of solar energy for industries, including cost savings, environmental impact, and improved energy reliability.
Why Solar Energy Makes Sense for the Healthcare Industry
Explore how the healthcare industry can leverage solar energy to reduce electricity bills, enhance reliability, and support green initiatives.
What Is an Array Junction Box in Solar PV Modules? | Complete Guide
The Array Junction Box (AJB) is a critical component in solar PV systems, connecting multiple solar modules and ensuring safe flow of electricity to the inverter. This blog explains what an AJB is, its key features, types, and why it is essential for both residential and commercial solar installations. Understand how AJBs protect your system from overload, short circuits, and environmental factors while maintaining optimal performance.