Checklist For Solar Site Selection
By Graham Mann | Published: 9/21/2025
Ensure your solar installation is efficient by evaluating sunlight, roof condition, tilt, permits, and financial planning.
Checklist For Solar Site Selection - Sunlight: Aim for 4–5 hours of direct sunlight daily. South-facing roofs are ideal, while east or west-facing options are less efficient. - Shading: Even minor shadows can reduce panel output by over 50%. Analyze shading patterns throughout the day and across seasons. - Roof Condition: Ensure your roof is in good shape and less than 10 years old. Structural issues or older roofs may require additional prep work. - Tilt and Orientation: Match your roof's angle to your latitude for optimal results. A 10–15° deviation reduces efficiency by only 2–4%. - Permits: Research local zoning and permitting requirements early. Approvals for electrical work, structural changes, and utility hookups can take weeks. - Financial Planning: Factor in costs, incentives like the 30% federal tax credit, and estimated energy savings to calculate ROI and payback periods. How to perform a site assessment and shading analysis for solar Location and Site Conditions Getting the...
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