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Photovoltaic Systems (PV Systems). There are two things to consider when installing PV systems. The first is how the PV modules are to be mounted and the second is the electrical set-up.
There are three types of mounts to consider: roof mounts, ground mounts, and pole mounts. Roof mounts are the most commonly used, but this depends on access to sun and personal preference. If you are fortunate to have clear non-shaded access to the sun for the entire day then the modules should be facing true SOUTH and inclined at 30 deg. However, for most of us shading occurs over parts of our intended location for some portion of the day. If the shading takes place in the morning then the panels should be facing WEST. This will place emphasis on generating electricity from the afternoon sun. If the shading takes place in the afternoon then the panels should be placed facing EAST.
The 30 deg inclination is a compromise between the optimum output year round without any adjustments. If you are interested in getting the maximum output during the winter months then the inclination should be 75 deg. Conversely, 15 deg will give the optimum output during the summer months.
Snow can be a problem depending on the installation and weather. For the most part, any buildi-up of snow will be melted off when the sun comes out and warms up the dark panels. However, a rapid accumulation of snow in a short time can completely cover some installations. If this happens then very gently brush off enough snow so that the sun can melt off the rest.
For the electrical connection, it is imperative that the electrical code applicable to your location be strictly applied. Section 50 of the Canadian Electrical Code has been added to cover Solar Photovoltaic Systems. In Ontario, all electrical work must be inspected by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).
Before any purchases are made, it is advisable to get a building permit. For Ottawa residences, more information on building permits can be obtained at any client service centre.
Wind Systems. Mounting and electrical considerations are also important for wind systems. The mounting portion can be more complex. In theory, the higher up a wind turbine is placed above the surrounding landscape the better the wind conditions for electrical generation. Before determining what type of mounting system you want it is best to study the zoning by-laws that are applicable for height restrictions (or any other restrictions).
Next determine what the wind conditions are like at various heights. To do this you can either use the information from the closest weather station or have a wind survey conducted at your intended site. Once the wind patterns are known you can determine what type of mounting structure is required to give you the best performance within your budget. In most cases, cost of installation is the overriding factor.
Installation of the electrical part in the household will be similar as for PV systems.
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