How to arrange hexagonal solar panels

How to design a solar panel?

The spatial layout design of PV panels starts with identification of rooftop areas suitable for the panel installation in a GIS. Based on the identified suitable areas, the appropriate candidate panel sites are identified. Two important assumptions are made in this study for simplifying the illustration.

Which direction should solar panels go?

As a general rule, the optimal direction for solar panels in the northern hemisphere is south. And in the southern hemisphere, the direction is north. So, the optimal direction for solar panels in the entire United States is south. The optimal tilt angle for fixed solar panels, as per a rule of thumb, is equal to the latitude of your location.

How do I choose the right roof for my solar panel array?

Selecting the right rooftop for your solar panel array is a pivotal decision that requires careful consideration. The choice of roof impacts the system’s performance, longevity, and overall return on investment. Orientation refers to the direction your roof faces in relation to the sun.

What factors affect the orientation of solar panels?

There are two factors in the orientation. The first is the direction, and the second is the tilt angle. Both are independent but vital parts in optimizing orientation for solar panels. The direction is calculated using the azimuth angle of the sun, which is simply a directional measure of the sun in the sky.

How to calculate solar panel orientation?

The orientation is composed of two parameters: direction and tilt angle. Select your timezone and enter your coordinates (latitude and longitude) to calculate the optimal orientation for fixed solar panels, twice adjusted solar panels, quarterly (seasonally) adjusted solar panels, and monthly adjusted solar panels.

How are solar panels installed?

First, PV panels are installed parallel to the rooftop. Second, the edges of all panels are parallel to the edges of a rooftop. As most solar PV panels are rectangular, panel orientations in terms of whether a panel is portrait or landscape are considered.