Designing with solar roofs - 10 key principles of solar roof design
1. Optimal orientation and inclination
Although it is widely believed that the southern slope is best for photovoltaics, in practice the east-west layout may be more advantageous. Why? It's about self-consumption - that is, using energy on an ongoing basis, instead of putting it into the grid. A typical household uses the most energy in the morning and evening, so an east-west installation is better suited to this consumption profile.
The minimum slope for eTile systems is:
- Classic, Flat, Fusion: 15 degree
- Step: 30 degree
Importantly, all systems can also be used on the facade, which gives additional design possibilities.
2. Patch spacing and module dimensions
Each system has its own characteristic patch spacing:
- Klasik: 400 mm
- Flat:250mm
- Pitch: 290 mm
The height of the battens and counter-battens must be a minimum of 40 mm for all systems - this is necessary for the room of cable trays.
3. Dimensions and types of modules
Full modules:
- Classic: 1190 x 800 mm (100 WP/m²)
- Flat: 2160 x 470 mm (170 WP/m²)
- Passo: 1200 x 290 mm (140 WP/m²)
- Diameter: 500 x 500 mm (130 Wp/m2)
- Fusion: 2160 x 470-530 mm (160 WP/m²)
The Classic and Flat systems have half-modules, which are crucial for finishing the edges of the roof, processing of chimneys or roof windows. Thanks to them, you can maintain a consistent appearance of the roof even in places that require a cut.
4. Energy efficiency and power planning
Different systems offer different performance per square meter:
- Klasik: 100 WP/m²
- Flat: 170 WP/m²
- Step:140 WP/m²
- Fusion: 160 WP/m²
5. Energy storage integration
When designing, it is worth providing a place for an energy storage. The principle of selection is simple: the capacity of the warehouse should be 1.5-2 times more kilowatt-hours than the power of the installation in kilowatts. For example, for a 10 kWp installation, the optimal storage is 15-20 kWh.
6. Planning of technical spaces
It is necessary to plan a place for:
- Inverter (preferably close to the main switchboard)
- Energy storage (if provided)
- Cable routes in troughs
- Electrical protection
7. Special treatments
In places requiring processing (chimneys, roof windows, ridge), half-panels or inactive elements should be used. This allows you to maintain visual consistency while ensuring correct roofing treatments.
8. Design documentation
As an architect, you should provide:
- Floor Plans and Sections with Dimensions
- Technical details of machining
- Specification of selected system solutions
- Plan for the deployment of active and inactive modules
9. Colors and aesthetics
eTile systems offer a variety of color variants, which allows them to be adapted to the architectural concept. Keep in mind that color can affect performance - darker shades provide better efficiency.
10. Cooperation with contractors
Electrotile resellers have their own network of certified contractors. Your task as an architect is to place the system in the project and provide complete documentation. The reseller will take care of the coordination of roofing and electrical work.
Did you know that... An east-west layout can provide a higher self-consumption of energy than the traditionally preferred south orientation? In a net-billing system, where the selling prices of energy to the grid are lower than the purchase prices, this is crucial for the profitability of the installation.
