Mountain Solar
Independent Energy Systems

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Is My Site Adequate for PV?
A PV system designer can conduct a detailed site evaluation for you. But to save the contractor time (and possibly save yourself some money), you can conduct 
a preliminary assessment to determine whether your site has potential for a PV system.

There are three factors to consider when determining whether your site is appropriate:

First, systems installed in the U.S.A. must have a clear southern exposure. For maximum daily power output, PV modules should be exposed to direct sunlight (not partial or shaded sunlight) for as much of the day as possible, especially during the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Second, the southern exposure must be free of obstructions such as trees, mountains, and buildings that might shade the modules. Even a partial shading of some of the modules in the array will reduce considerably the amount of electrical energy they produce. Consider both summer and winter paths of the sun, as well as the growth of trees and future construction that may cause shading problems.

 

Finally, the solar site must also have sufficient roof space or appropriate terrain to install the PV system. If modules are being installed on the roof of a building, a flat surface or a south-facing slope is best, but an easterly or westerly slope of the roof can also work quite acceptably. For ground mounting, a flat, grassy site or a moderate southerly slope is appropriate terrain; whereas a steep, rocky hillside or northerly slope is not.


  "Thank you for the top-notch workmanship on the solar system. We are convinced that solar is the way to go.  With summer temperatures reaching 100-degree-plus here at Lake of the Pines Ranchos, we are happy that we can run the air conditioner without fear of the dreaded PG&E bill. You were very accommodating when we made several changes to the original plan, and very patient while we built our shade structure.  My philosophy has been that no one would put in the extra work that it takes to do the job as well as my husband would;  therefore, we do most home improvements ourselves.  You have proven me wrong.  The work you did was detailed and of the highest quality workmanship. I know this system will last well beyond the manufacturer’s warranty."

              --  Brian & Maria W, Auburn, CA

 

Mountain Solar
Independent Energy Systems
info@mountainsolar.net

175 Joerschke Dr. Suite M
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Phone: (530) 274-7355