Fotovoltaikos magistrantūros institutas
Fotovoltinių panelių įrengimas ant žemės, stogo, balkono ar fasado - nauda ir dažniausiai pasitaikančios klaidos
Year by year, more people choose to install photovoltaic systems on their property. When opting for this form of energy generation, it is crucial to select appropriate panels and consider the right location for the installation. Proper placement and installation of photovoltaic panels affect not only the amount of energy produced but also installation costs, maintenance, and the system’s lifespan.This article explores popular locations and methods for installing PV panels – from flat and sloped roofs to various roofing materials, as well as ground, wall, and balcony installations. Discover the different methods of photovoltaic panel installation to make an informed decision!
Where Can Photovoltaic Panels Be Installed?
The choice of location is a critical factor during the installation of photovoltaic panels. Roofs—flat or sloped—are the most common installation sites, offering excellent sun exposure and energy production optimization. However, in some cases, such as when the roof is unsuitable, ground installation may be a better option. Less conventional choices, like wall-mounted or balcony installations, are also possible. Each location requires a tailored approach and has unique advantages and limitations worth considering.
How Does Panel Orientation Affect Installation Efficiency?
When installing photovoltaic panels, attention must be paid to both the location and orientation of the panels. The direction in which the panels are installed directly impacts the amount of energy generated. In Poland, the optimal solution is to orient the panels southward, maximizing sunlight capture throughout the day. If this is not feasible, for instance, due to shading, installing panels facing east or west can still be cost-effective, though with a slight efficiency reduction of 10–20%.
An interesting alternative is splitting the panels between east and west directions. This arrangement better matches energy production to daily demand, which often peaks in the morning and afternoon/evening. Installing panels facing north, however, is not recommended, as it significantly reduces energy output, making the system inefficient.
Installation Methods for Photovoltaic Panels in Different Locations
Various locations require different installation techniques and mounting systems. Depending on technical conditions and budget, installation can be performed on different roof types, ground surfaces, walls, and even balconies. Let’s examine the process of installing photovoltaic panels in common settings.
Installing Photovoltaic Panels on a Flat Roof
Flat roofs provide great flexibility for positioning panels at optimal angles, crucial for maximizing system efficiency. Installation on a flat roof requires support structures, which can be fastened with pins, screws, or ballasts. Each method has its advantages but also demands proper safeguards, especially against strong winds. Self-supporting systems, allowing for quick installation without additional fasteners, reduce the risk of roof damage.
Photovoltaic Panels on a Sloped Roof
Sloped roofs are the most popular location for photovoltaic installations in Poland, particularly in single-family homes. The natural slope facilitates optimal sunlight capture, enhancing efficiency. Panels are arranged in rows, with mounting adapted to the roofing material. Although technically more challenging than flat roof installations, sloped roofs offer easier maintenance, as rainfall naturally cleans the panels.
Photovoltaic Installation on Trapezoidal Metal Roofs
Trapezoidal metal roofing is commonly used in Poland, especially for utility and industrial buildings. Panels are mounted on rails attached to special trapezoidal brackets and profiles fastened directly to the metal using screws. This method ensures stability, while the roof’s ridges enhance ventilation and allow rainwater to drain quickly, benefiting the system’s performance and durability.
Photovoltaic Installation on Metal Tile Roofs
Metal tile roofing is highly popular in Poland for its durability and ease of maintenance, making it an excellent base for photovoltaic systems. Panels are mounted using double-threaded screws anchored into roof beams. Aluminum adapters and rails are then attached, forming a foundation for the panels. An alternative method employs bridges without aluminum profiles, minimizing roof penetration. Precision during installation is crucial to avoid damaging the roofing and ensure the system’s longevity.
Installing Photovoltaic Panels on Felt Roofs
Felt roofs require special care during photovoltaic installation. As felt absorbs heat significantly, adequate ventilation between the panels and the roof is essential to prevent overheating, which could reduce system efficiency. Installations on felt roofs use special seals to prevent water infiltration at mounting points. Welding the membrane at fastening points enhances insulation and ensures the system’s longevity.
Installing Photovoltaic Panels on the Ground
Ground installation is an alternative to roof-mounted systems, particularly suitable for large, undeveloped plots. It requires support structures anchored using piling, screw anchors, or concrete foundations. Each method varies in cost and stability, making the choice dependent on soil type and system size.
Wall-Mounted Photovoltaic Panels
Wall-mounted PV installations are increasingly common where suitable roof or ground space is unavailable. These systems perform best in winter, when the sun is lower, though they produce less energy in summer. Panels are mounted on specialized frames ensuring ventilation between the modules and the wall to prevent overheating. Although less efficient, wall installations can supplement a photovoltaic system effectively.
Photovoltaic Panels on Balconies
Balcony-mounted panels are primarily used in residential buildings. Typically, 1–2 panels are installed on the balcony railing. This setup can help reduce energy costs for apartments where roof installation is not feasible. Note, however, that balcony installations in multi-family buildings require approval from the housing cooperative.
Who Can Install a Photovoltaic System?
Photovoltaic systems should be installed by qualified professionals with appropriate certifications, such as those issued by the Office of Technical Inspection (UDT) or qualification certificates. While polish law does not prohibit DIY photovoltaic installations, network operators may refuse to connect systems installed by uncertified individuals. Professional installation ensures both safety and system efficiency.
Why Is Proper Photovoltaic Installation So Important?
Proper installation is key to efficiency and longevity. Mistakes can lead to reduced performance, mechanical damage, or even system failures like fires. Poorly secured panels or unsuitable components can also shorten the lifespan of the panels, reducing return on investment. Hiring a professional installation company ensures attention to every detail.
What Are the Most Common Mistakes Made During the Installation of Photovoltaic Panels?
During the installation of photovoltaic panels, several mistakes can be made that affect not only the performance of the system but also its durability and safety. One common issue is installing modules with the junction box facing downward, which increases the risk of moisture ingress and can lead to electrical damage. Another mistake is pressing modules against the rails when the rail does not fit perfectly, which can cause microcracks in the cells.
Failing to maintain an appropriate gap between the rail and the roofing material, such as trapezoidal sheet metal, can lead to corrosion due to friction. Another frequent issue is improper cable management, especially near lightning protection systems or without protective conduits, increasing the risk of overvoltages and damage.
Walking on the modules during installation is another error that causes microcracks, and using clamps that are too short can weaken the entire structure. When choosing an installation company, it’s worth ensuring that they adhere to best practices to avoid these and other problems.
How to Check the Correctness of a Photovoltaic Installation?
Proper installation of photovoltaic panels is crucial for ensuring the system operates efficiently for many years. To verify the correctness of the installation, several key aspects should be examined. Firstly, panels should be installed in a location with optimal sun exposure, ideally facing south. Even if the roof does not allow for a perfect orientation, an appropriate tilt angle for the panels can compensate for this drawback. In Poland, it is recommended that the tilt angle of the modules ranges from 25 to 50 degrees, depending on the geographical location.
Another important factor is the stability of the supporting structure. The panels must be securely fastened but not overtightened to avoid mechanical damage. Adequate airflow around the modules is also essential to prevent overheating, which impacts the system’s efficiency.
The quality of cabling should also be checked. Wires must be carefully routed and protected against weather conditions and mechanical damage. All connectors should be tightly secured to ensure the reliability of the installation and prevent future issues.
If all these elements are met, you can be confident that the photovoltaic installation has been carried out according to best practices.
DUK
1. Can I install photovoltaic panels myself?
Technically, it is possible to install photovoltaic panels on your own, but it is not recommended. This is because connecting a PV system may not be feasible without the appropriate certifications.
2. How long does it take to install a photovoltaic system?
Installing photovoltaic panels on an average roof usually takes one to two days, depending on the size of the system and weather conditions.
3. How can I verify if the installation has been correctly performed?
After the installation is complete, check the positioning of the panels, their tilt angle, and the quality of the mounting. A good practice is to order a post-installation audit to assess the quality of the work.