How to choose the best location for solar panels?
To select the optimal location for solar panels, this article will first discuss the fundamentals of site selection, considering geographical factors and climatic conditions and their impact. We will also explore architectural considerations, legal and administrative aspects, as well as technologies and tools for site analysis, concluding with case studies and success stories that illustrate the optimal placement of solar panels.
Fundamentals of Site Selection
Several factors play a role in selecting the best location for solar panels. Ideal sites are those with high solar radiation, ample space, and where land and infrastructure costs are justifiable. The site should also be protected from shading, and the panel tilt should be adjustable to maximize energy output.
Considering Geographical Factors
The fundamentals cover some points that can be expanded under geographical factors. From a geographical perspective, besides the number of sunlight hours per year, the latitude, altitude, risk of snow and frost, proximity to dry or coastal areas, as well as direction, dust and air pollution, and temperature fluctuations, all have an impact on the energy yield. Each of these factors directly affects the performance of solar panels.
Climatic Conditions and Their Impact
The impact of climatic conditions should not be underestimated. The table below shows some effects that can influence the efficiency of solar panels:
| Effect | Description | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Overheating of Panels | High temperatures can reduce the efficiency of solar panels and cause material damage | Mounting panels with space for airflow, using heat-resistant materials |
| Shading by Snow | Snowfall can cover the panels, halting energy production | Anti-adhesive coatings, automatic snow removal systems |
| Wind Load and Stability | Strong winds can damage solar panels or alter their orientation | Reinforced mounting systems and wind protection measures |
| Corrosion Due to Humidity | High humidity can corrode materials and shorten the lifespan of the panels | Corrosion-resistant materials such as steel or aluminum |
| Storms and Hail | Extreme weather events like storms and hail can damage or destroy solar panels | Hail-resistant glass, storm protection systems |
Architectural Considerations
The following points are important from an architectural perspective:
- Roof tilt and orientation
- Structural load capacity
- Integration with building design
- Shading analysis
- Maintenance access
- Air circulation under panels
- Modular expandability
- Safety aspects
- Cabling and connections
- Material selection
All points, except for the shading analysis, are technical. However, the shading analysis is more complex, as sunlight exposure varies depending on the time of day and year. This assessment should be conducted very carefully, as it directly impacts the system's performance and cannot be corrected later.
Legal and Administrative Aspects
Several legal and administrative factors must be considered when setting up a solar system. Here are some of the most important:
- Building permits (for systems larger than micro solar installations or plug and play solar systems)
- Feed-in tariffs
- Contract law
- Roof usage rights
- Fire safety regulations
- Tax benefits and subsidies
- Registration of the system with the energy provider
To meet legal and administrative requirements, it is advisable to seek expert advice during the planning stage to comply with obligations and meet deadlines, thereby avoiding potential issues in the future.
Technology and Tools for Site Analysis
To identify the best locations for solar panels, various technologies and tools are available. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can be used to analyze solar radiation and choose optimal locations, and solar radiation databases can provide answers regarding the average sunlight exposure in a specific area. Additionally, shading analysis software can simulate the shading effects of surrounding objects.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Thin-film panels are particularly sustainable because they can be manufactured with less material. Near Leipzig, the Waldpolenz Solar Park was built, which, with a capacity of 52 MW, is the largest thin-film solar park in the world, supplying electricity to approximately 40,000 households.
Another positive example is the repurposing of a former lignite mining area in Brandenburg. The Meuro Solar Park, with a capacity of 166 MW, is a valuable contribution to the energy transition, symbolizing the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy.