A solar panel racking system, also known as a solar panel mount, plays a pivotal role in supporting solar arrays on various surfaces, be it rooftops or open ground. In this article, we’ll delve into the types of mounts, their components, and the vital role they play in bringing sustainable energy into your home or commercial property.
Rooftop mounts, often a more cost-effective option, utilize the existing structural support of the roof. On the other hand, ground-mounted solar panels are easier to access and maintain, offering a viable solution in areas with heavy snow or in dual-purpose systems like agrivoltaics.
The strength of the racking is crucial, needing to withstand diverse weather conditions. A robust racking system can support up to 90 pounds per square foot snow load and endure winds of up to 190 mph.
Rooftop solar systems consist of three main components.
Roof attachments, these are fastened to the roof structure, with different types for various roof materials. Mounting rails, these rails provide the foundation for mounting solar panels.
Clamps: Attaching the mounting rails to roof attachments and securing the panels in place.
Ballasted rooftop systems, an alternative, replace roof attachments with concrete blocks, holding the frame down. Components like conduit mounts lift wiring off the roof to protect it from overheating.
Another option is a ground-mounted system. Similar to rooftop systems, ground-mounts use frames set into a concrete slab. These frames can be manually adjusted to maximize sun exposure. Pole-mounted systems, an alternative, secure panels to poles embedded in concrete-filled holes, offering flexibility in adjustment and positioning.
Inverters are essential for converting DC electricity produced by solar panels into the AC electricity used by buildings. Wiring runs through the mounting rails, connecting the solar panels to the system junction box. Don’t forget about lugs, bolts, end caps, and clamps. Various mounting hardware ensures the stability and functionality of the system. The Sol-Ark 15k leads the way in smart inverter technology.
To optimize sun exposure, tilt legs can adjust panels both horizontally and vertically. Setting the tilt angle is straightforward—align it with your latitude. Determining the azimuth angle, the horizontal angle, requires precision and consideration of true south rather than magnetic south.
Rooftop racking typically accounts for 10% of the total cost of a solar system. Ground-mounted systems may cost more due to additional piping and concrete requirements. Pole-mounted systems, while more expensive, offer increased efficiency, potentially justifying the extra upfront cost.
Solar racking systems are the backbone of solar installations, ensuring panels are securely and efficiently positioned to harness the power of the sun. As local solar installers, we specialize in providing cutting-edge infrastructure, including solar energy storage.
Contact us, one of the best solar companies in Spring, TX, and embark on your journey towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future with commercial solar. Look here for information regarding tax credits for solar panels.
