|
Applications General Home Consumer Business Generators Stand Alone Battery Hybrid
Net Metering Utility Power Utility Grid
A PV system needs unobstructed access to the sun's rays for most or all of the day, throughout the year. Do not worry if you live in an area with a changing climate. PV modules are relatively unaffected by severe weather. In fact, some PV cells actually work better in colder weather. PV modules are angled to catch the sun, not snow, so any snow that does collect melts quickly. Even hail will not harm them. But you will need adequate roof space to mount your PV system. Most residential systems require as little as 50 square feet (for a small "starter" system) up to as much as 1,000 square feet for larger systems. Whether you are considering a retrofit to an existing roof, or proposing a system in your new construction plans, solar electricity can be a viable source of energy for your home or office.
But remember, an energy-efficient building needs a smaller PV system. In other words, the more energy efficient your home or office is, the less energy you will need to produce. A typical one-kilowatt system would occupy from 80 to 360 square feet. The size of your system will be dependent upon your energy needs and usage habits. As part of your purchase process, a solar professional such as a designer or installer, should work with you to assess your needs and the appropriate of size of your system. A PV system can be installed on any type of roof, although some roof types are simpler and cheaper to work with than others are. If your roof is older and needs to be replaced in the very near future, you will want to replace it at the time the PV system is installed to avoid the cost of removing and reinstalling your PV system.
This solar electric system, integrated into an awning over a back porch California, generates electricity while shading the family's outdoor activities.
|
