Optimizing Solar Panel Placement on Your Commercial Farm

So many farmers are making the switch to solar, but why?

Well, investing in solar energy significantly reduces electricity costs. Commercial solar installation companies help individuals like you reduce your carbon footprint while maximizing savings that you can reinvest. 

Of course, you want to make sure that you get the most out of your new system and the right placement is key. After all, you want maximum sunlight exposure. Our solar guide tells you what to know about solar panel placement. 

How to Maximize Sunlight Exposure

Not all sunlight that touches a photovoltaic (PV) cell gets converted into electricity. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, most of it is lost. 

Solar cell design plays a huge role in how well a system captures and converts light into energy. However, the correct solar panel placement also helps or hinders its efficiency. 

Since the sun's position changes constantly throughout the day, you need to maximize exposure with the right placement and tilt. That involves the following factors. 

Location

In the United States, solar energy systems work best when tilted true south. That's because the US is located in the northern hemisphere, and this angle maximizes the amount of direct sunlight your panels receive. 

This angle ensures that your system remains exposed to the sun longer to generate more electricity. 

Latitude

Latitidue is another important factor to consider when placing solar panels for farms. That's because moving farther north or south affects the sun's angle. Therefore, the ideal tilt angle depends on how far north or south you are. 

Protection From Pests

There are many factors that can affect your solar energy system on and around your land as well. For instance, you must consider the possible damage from birds and wildlife. 

Rodents and other pests can ruin the wiring or structural components. This may result in fires or ruined equipment. You can protect your system with barriers, pest repellent, and other solutions. 

Avoiding Shaded Areas

As you might expect, commercial solar installation works best when the panels are located in an open area with plenty of direct sunlight. Buildings or trees that may create shaded areas will affect how well your solar energy system works. 

Accounting for the Seasons

As the seasons change, so does the sun's position. The sun sits higher in the sky during summer and lower in winter. To account for these changes, you'll have to adjust the tilt (if possible.) 

You'll also want to protect your system from bad weather. Strong winds and hail can cause damage to the equipment. Thankfully, keeping up with a maintenance plan helps you stay on top of these issues. 

Commercial Solar Installation Companies Make It Easy

You don't have to worry about the right placement when you work with commercial solar installation companies. They'll find the best spot and angle for maximum sunlight exposure. 

Transform Energy provides large-scale solar solutions to significantly reduce operating costs. We offer new system installation and maintenance solutions to make the switch simple. 

Find out how it works by contacting us today.