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Flat roof installation and panel angle.

  • 20-07-2023 3:56pm
    #1
    jumpin jack
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 88 ✭✭


    Hi there,

    In my effort to achieve self-sufficiency and eventually transition entirely off-grid, I'm considering the addition of more panels to my current solar system. I have access to a 36 sqm flat roof area where I intend to install another 18 panels. However, I am concerned about the intensity of storms we've experienced in the past few years. Due to this, I cannot affix any rails to the roof and must rely on ballast for mounting. I'm curious to know if anyone has dealt with similar circumstances or has experience with installing solar panels on flat roofs. Additionally, I'm interested in determining the shallowest angle at which I can mount the panels securely.


    Many thanks!



Comments

  • #2
    10-10-20
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,071 ✭✭✭10-10-20


    Hi, what exposure does the site have in terms of whether it's near to the sea, protected by trees/buildings?

    From watching one ballasted system being installed (link below) I don't think you can pitch the panels optimally, I think you're limited to around 10 or 15 degrees off the H anyway. I think that most ballast systems will be limited in terms of the pitch so that the loading factors are maintained within control, but you probably need to use an online calculator to match the panel weight and surface-area and wind loadings to the ballast weight.


    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVs0r8FKElE




  • #3
    DC999
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,542 ✭✭✭DC999


    Dumb Q. Are you worried the panels on the roof will pull off the roof in very heavy winds? Legit concern of course.

    Will adding ballast on top of the panels on top of the roof help that? Or could you not brace the roof below instead? The ballast will add a lot more weight to the roof. And seems adding more lose stuff would be more likely to be affected by very high wind speeds than being bolterd into a secure roof.

    Btw, you can have solar on close to flat roofs. I have as do others here. Output drops outside summer when sun is lower in the sky.

    Plan B. Do you have space for a ground mount instead? Or use a smaller amount of roof space on that shed (so less wind load)? Step the panels in like the SEAI grant regs which is supposed to reduce wind drag AFAIK. Or mount them to the side of the shed wall at an angle. Or even close to vertical for good winter production..



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