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Solar Energy
NOTE:
Modules shall be mounted so that the junction
box shall be in the uppermost position to mini-
mize the ingress of water.
Clearance between Modules
A clearance of 6mm/.25" between modules is
sufficient in most installations to accommodate
thermal expansion. However, the appropriate
clearance is dependent upon installation spe-
cific factors including the module mounting
system, temperature at the site and the maxi-
mum operating temperature of the module. The
maximum distance between modules should
not exceed 12" based on using standard wiring.
Orientation, Tilt Angle & Shading
Photovoltaic modules generate maximum power
when facing directly towards the sun. PV sys-
tems can track the sun or remain in a fixed tilt
position. Tracking systems will produce more
energy but are more costly and require more
maintenance. PV systems are predominantly set
at a tilt. The further North from the equator, the
more tilt. Since applications and needs are
different, consult a PV system integrator or use
a commercially available software program to
determine the expected energy output. The
following chart may serve as a rule of thumb.
Site Latitude
Horizontal Tilt Angle
0-10
11-20
21-30
31-40
41+
The following paragraphs list some other gen-
eral rules of thumb:
It is not recommended to set the tilt angle be-
low 10-15 degrees. Dirt tends to accumulate on
modules installed at flatter angles and does not
wash off as readily during rainfall. Dirt accumu-
lation or any debris, even snowfall on the mod-
ule will reduce its energy output.
Modules should be located in areas with an
unobstructed view of the sun where they will
receive maximum exposure of sunlight for the
longest possible time during the day. Shadow-
ing caused by buildings, trees, utility poles and
other obstructions, significantly reduces the
= 10 Degrees
= Latitude
= Latitude + 5~
= Latitude + 10~
= Latitude + 15~
module energy output.
In systems that are configured with multiple
rows of modules, the rows must be spaced far
enough apart to minimize the impact of shading
on other rows. This distance is dependent on
the latitude and tilt angle at which the system is
installed. The closer to the equator, requires a
lower tilt angle and therefore the shorter this
distance. The further from the equator, higher
tilt angle and therefore the greater this distance
needs to be. If there are questions regarding
the optimum configuration in which to arrange,
mount or wire the modules, obtain assistance
from your Bosch Solar dealer or distributor or
retain the services of an engineer familiar with
the proper design of PV systems.
Suggested Mounting Methods
The information in this section only suggests
possible methods of securing the PV modules to
a 'module mounting system.'
It is the sole responsibility of the user and/or
installer to verify that the module mounting
system and mounting method is properly engi-
neered and is in accordance with local building
codes and regulations.
Bosch Solar PV modules can be arranged in
either landscape or portrait position on flat or
sloped roofs or surfaces and at flat or tilted
angles.
The modules shall be mounted so that the junc-
tion box shall be in the uppermost position to
minimize the ingress of water.
NOTE:
Always use caution when mounting a module on
tilted angles or sloped roofs so the module does
not slide out of position while attaching it to the
module mounting system.
NOTE:
The minimum standoff distance between Bosch
Solar modules and the roof is 40mm.
CAUTION
Never leave a module unsupported or unsecured.
If a module falls, the glass could break. A module
with broken glass cannot be repaired and must
not be installed.
Bosch Solar requires one of the following meth-
ods for mounting Bosch Solar PV Modules:
5/9
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