Solar Module Mounting
Solar modules can be mounted in different ways, for example:
- on a pole,
- a ground support,
- a wall of a building or
- a roof.
Only in small systems, that need to satisfy a low energy demand, a single module is mounted. If more modules are linked together to increase the output, one speaks of a photovoltaic array.
The decision for a certain mounting structure depends on the site and its access to unobstructed sunlight and the lenght of the wires to the batteries.
For pitched roofs many different racks have been devised. For flat roofs, racks, bins and building integrated solutions are used.
The least costly option are fixed mounting structures. These structures tilt the modules at a fixed angle determined by the latitude of the site, the requirements of the load (appliances which are powered by the PV power system) and the availability of sunlight.
Tracking structures are more expensive and require higher maintenance efforts. The trackers orient the modules towards the Sun, thus increasing their output.
