CSLB C-46 Solar ContractorPlanning and EstimatingMedium
During a site analysis for a residential PV installation, a C-46 contractor observes significant shading from a large, mature tree to the east of the primary roof plane. This shading occurs consistently during the early morning hours. What is the most effective immediate action the contractor should take regarding this specific shading issue?
- ASuggest trimming or removing the tree, if permissible by the homeowner.
- BPropose microinverters or power optimizers for all modules.
- CRecommend increasing the array size to compensate for lost production.
- DAdjust the system design to place modules only on the unshaded western portion of the roof.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Suggest trimming or removing the tree, if permissible by the homeowner.
Addressing the source of shading directly, such as trimming or removing a tree, is often the most effective method for maximizing solar production and should be discussed with the homeowner first, provided it's feasible and permissible.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While MLPEs are beneficial for mitigating shading effects, they do not eliminate the shading itself and are a secondary solution after exploring source removal.
- C. Increasing array size without addressing shading is inefficient and does not solve the root cause of production loss due to early morning shade.
- D. Placing modules only on the western portion might limit the overall system size and production, especially if the eastern roof plane has good solar access during other times of the day.
Shade Analysis Mitigation
Strategies employed to reduce or eliminate the negative impact of shading on a solar PV system's performance.
- Shading significantly reduces PV system output.
- Direct removal of shade source is often the most effective solution.
- Technological solutions like MLPEs can help mitigate unavoidable shading.
Memory trick: Trees Obscure Sun; Remove or Adapt.