My solution to snow load issues is to install modules on racks so they
can tilt to 90 degrees when it's snow season. I guess it depends on
where you are but in the areas of Alaska where we work we tell people to
tilt your array to 90 in the fall and kick it back to lat-15 in the late
spring. They gain some from snow reflection and lose some because
they're not always at the best angle but they make a lot more power than
modules installed under the snow.
We like top of pole mounts that allow for an 85 or 90 degree setting for
the snowy season. We've done some installs of modules on the s side of
buildings where we leave them basically plumb during snow season and
kick them out like an awning the rest of the year. Sometimes there's a
nice 2' overhang on the roof that keeps the snow off the wall mounted
array even if it's kicked out maybe to 75 degrees or so. Roof installs
are our least favorite for a number of reasons.
I know the architects among us love to not see those ugly modules but I
generally try to convince my clients that their neighbors will think
they're stupid if they see their PV panels under the snow.
Believe it or not we get most of our annual sunshine in the spring.
It's clear and cool. June has more "possible" sun hours but is
generally cloudier so the NREL 30 yr averages show spring to be the most
productive for us. Don't want to miss out on that power if we can help it!
Best,
Greg
Greg Egan
Remote Power Inc.
981 Gold Mine Trail
Fairbanks, AK 99712
P. 907.457.4299
U.S.Distributor for Outback Power Systems and other premium power equipment.
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