- #1
Foxyquik
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Hi all, First time post, long time lurker, sorry if this is in the wrong section.
I am currently looking at a project that requires a large solar panel array onto a very tight roof area; maximising space is therefore important. Thus, keeping the panels as close together is important.
I have a found a calculation methodology that requires the solar altitude angle and solar azimuth angle during the earliest time on the winter solstice (worst case scenario) and then requires the following:
Dm = h/tan(a) Where Dm = Maximum Shadow length, h=height of panel, a = angle of orientation.
D= Dm * cos (180 - u). Where D = Min Spacing between panels, u = worst case azimuth on winter solstice.
However, this method is for due south azimuths only. Therefore, has anyone got any suggestions as to how to accurately calculate the minimum distance between panels. I assume, that I would take away the difference between the actual orientation of the panels and south azimuth away from (180-u), but my trig skills are not up to scratch and would like some help on this one.
Thanks so much in advance,
Charlie
I am currently looking at a project that requires a large solar panel array onto a very tight roof area; maximising space is therefore important. Thus, keeping the panels as close together is important.
I have a found a calculation methodology that requires the solar altitude angle and solar azimuth angle during the earliest time on the winter solstice (worst case scenario) and then requires the following:
Dm = h/tan(a) Where Dm = Maximum Shadow length, h=height of panel, a = angle of orientation.
D= Dm * cos (180 - u). Where D = Min Spacing between panels, u = worst case azimuth on winter solstice.
However, this method is for due south azimuths only. Therefore, has anyone got any suggestions as to how to accurately calculate the minimum distance between panels. I assume, that I would take away the difference between the actual orientation of the panels and south azimuth away from (180-u), but my trig skills are not up to scratch and would like some help on this one.
Thanks so much in advance,
Charlie