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How to Determine the Right Solar System for Your Needs
There is no single, optimum-size solar energy system for each house. The right system for you will be a function of your available un-shaded roof or ground area, your present level of energy use, and your investment budget.
Available Space
Many roofs do not have enough space to fit a solar array that will provide 100% of energy needs. The most important factor in determining available space for the solar arrays is to ensure that there will be little or no shading from trees or adjacent buildings. If there is some unavoidable shading, the extent of shading will be determined to accurately calculate the expected total annual solar output.
Solar arrays need not be located on the roof and can be located on a metal frame at ground level in an un-shaded location. If there is adequate land available, the solar array can be oriented due south for maximum performance and efficiency. Locating the solar array on the ground can sometimes address a challenging roof approach or extensive tree shading.
System Sizing
In choosing an appropriately sized solar system, the only limitation beyond space availability and budget is the total annual electric usage. Systems cannot be designed to produce more than the annual electric demand of the meter.
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