Are solar panels a standard size?: how to choose them correctly?
In the solar panel market there are many varieties of size, brands, efficiency, etc., but Are solar panels a standard size? Next we will analyze what are the standard sizes of solar modules.
When designing a photovoltaic installation we must take into account not only its power. The dimensions and weight of the solar panels we use are also important, especially if it is photovoltaic on the roofs of buildings. What are their sizes and how much do photovoltaic panels weigh?
Are solar panels a standard size?
The dimensions of the photovoltaic panels largely depend on the size of the roof surface or the place where we want to install them, as well as our electricity demand. The type of roof is also important.
First, let’s take a look at the dimensions achieved by photovoltaic panels. The dimensions depend, among other things, on the number of links. We distinguish 48, 60 and 72 cell photovoltaic panels, of which the 60 cell version is the most popular in domestic installations. They have good mechanical properties and are easy to install.
The dimensions of the photovoltaic panels themselves have been standardized over the years. For example, a 280W polycrystalline panel is approximately 100cm wide and up to 170cm long. Its thickness is 4 cm.
Are solar panels a standard size?: Standard photovoltaic panel – dimensions (average for 60 cell polycrystalline panels):
A continuacion analizaremos si Are solar panels a standard size? Veamos las medidas:
- length: 165-170 cm,
- width: 100-102 cm,
- thickness: 4 cm.
Dimensions of the photovoltaic panels
Approx. 200 cm x 100 cm x 40 mm
Weight of the photovoltaic panels
Approx. 21.00 kg
Number of cells: 72
Power of the photovoltaic panels
The power of the photovoltaic module is 380-400 W
Once we have made the decision to obtain cheap and ecological energy produced with the use of solar rays with the help of photovoltaic panels, it is time to ask ourselves more detailed questions. For the most general, that is, in the first place: why do we need photovoltaic energy? – is relatively easy to answer.
Although you have to bear some investment costs up front, the goal is to save electricity in the years following the return on investment (usually after 6-8 years). On the other hand, the problem arises when it is necessary to select the appropriate dimensions of the photovoltaic panels to, on the one hand, cover the domestic electricity demand, and on the other, not to overload the roof on which the panels are installed. most of the time (although this is not a rule).
Therefore, the best answer to the question posed in the title will be: wisely. In practice, it will be the result of the size and structure of the surfaces on which they are to be placed, as well as the power that we want to obtain.
The size of photovoltaic panels: what does it depend on?
Are solar panels a standard size? The size of photovoltaic panels mainly depends on the number of cells used , which we briefly mentioned above: 40, 60 or 72 cells per panel (average cell dimensions are 15 × 15 cm). However, this does not have a significant impact on the difference in the scale of the investments, since their efficiency is more important.
Of course, 72-cell panels are larger and heavier than 60-cell products, for example:
- SPR-MAX3-400 model with 60 cells (dimensions: 1690 × 1046 mm, weight: 19 kg);
- 72-cell BEM 360Wp Prestige Power model (dimensions: 1960 × 992 mm, weight: 21.3 kg).
More important than the dimensions of the photovoltaic panels is their efficiency , that is, the amount of light converted into electricity. The prices of photovoltaic panels are increasing in proportion to the increase in efficiency. Therefore, we should find the optimum between its efficiency and cost. The power of the installation f or tovoltaica should cover electricity demand, on the other hand, the recovery period should be as short as possible, including calculations obtained from the photovoltaic subsidy.
The higher the power in a single module, the fewer panels we will need to achieve the desired power of the photovoltaic installation. As a result, the photovoltaic installation will take up less space, which is important especially for small roofs.
For example, for a 5 kWp installation, we need 15 panels with a capacity of 350 Wp or 17 panels that generate 300 Wp. If we assume that our installation must have a power of 3 kWp, it will be 8-9 (350 Wp) or 10 panels (300 Wp) respectively.
In this way, we can choose them optimally in relation to the surface of the roof of the building, taking into account its slope. We must also remember that on a roof with a slope of 30-35%, on average, 1 kilowatt of power (4 panels of 250 Wp) requires about 6.5 m2. on the surface, on a flat roof and on the ground, even up to 15 square meters. Such a big difference is due to the obligation to install special frames that allow the optimum angle of incidence of sunlight to be achieved.
Roof area and photovoltaic installation
We already have more or less specific dimensions of the photovoltaic panels and the annual electricity demand of a certain home. Now we can begin to calculate the area of the ceiling that will be needed for the installation. It is not uncommon for photovoltaic modules to cover the entire available roof area , in other cases only part of it. It is also important if the panels are placed in special structures on a flat roof or if it will be a sloping roof. We have to answer the following questions: How many windows? How are they distributed? With or without “swallows”? etc. In the first case, it is necessary to maintain the appropriate distance between the modules related to the width of the shadow area. If the installation is on a sloped ceiling, the modules can be placed very close to each other, filling almost the entire ceiling surface.
The method of calculating the required roof area for the structure is very simple. Assuming that we need a photovoltaic generator of 5 kW of power, with modules of 102 cm x 165 cm and 250 W of power, we need about 35 square meters of roof surface . We divide the dimensions of the module by the power of the module and multiply it by the power of the generator. So actually, it comes out a bit more. The photovoltaic modules rectangular rarely perfectly fill the roof, especially if cut with windows or “swallows”.
The decision is up to us
In the end, the size of a photovoltaic micro installation will depend on what type of energy we want to get . In the case of small or medium-sized companies, they will necessarily occupy a slightly larger area. In the case of households, the demand for electricity is often easily met with installations mounted on the ceiling or on the floor. Interestingly, these ground facilities are also becoming increasingly popular. For example, on farms (sometimes even replacing agricultural activities), but not only. In any case, we can make preliminary calculations of how much space a possible photovoltaic installation will occupy. It is enough to collect basic data on the power, the dimensions of the panels and the surface on which they will be installed.
Dimensions of photovoltaic panels: which are the most frequently chosen and how to choose them?
The dimensions of the photovoltaic panels largely depend on how much free space there is on the roof and where they are to be installed. The total electricity requirement of the home is also important. What are the available dimensions of photovoltaic panels on the market and what influences the choice of their size?
Are solar panels a standard size: Dimensions of photovoltaic panels
In previous years, the size of photovoltaic panels depended mainly on the manufacturer that produced them. In the past, the dimensions of the panels were very different. Today, however, panels are produced to a greater extent, production processes have been standardized, so the dimensions of photovoltaic panels have become similar. Until the mid-1990s, panels used to be 1.2 by 0.6 m in size and rated at about 90 watts. Now, much larger solar cells are being developed, measuring 8 inches instead of just 4, and their size has changed significantly. Photovoltaic panels are made of photovoltaic cells.
In general, photovoltaic panels for homes consist of 60 cells, while those for industrial use, 72 cells. The square links measure 156 by 156 mm on the sides and are called 6-inch links. As for the 60-cell panels, they are arranged in 10 columns, 6 in a row, which gives the panel a certain dimension. By a distance between the cells of 5-5 mm and the distance between the cells and the panel frame, typically around 2 cm long and 3-5 cm wide, the standard dimensions of photovoltaic panels are obtained , i.e. 165 × 100 cm. These are the dimensions of the average panel. If 18 medium-sized panels of this type are used on the roof, for a power of 5 kW, their area on the roof will be 6 × 5 m, which is 30 m2 .
Standard size of solar panels
The standard dimensions of photovoltaic panels are approximately 165 cm x 100 cm, but it should be remembered that sometimes there are deviations from these dimensions. So you can meet panels with dimensions such as: 164.5 × 99.5; 168 × 100; 165 × 100.3. For this reason, it is better to consult the catalog sheet of the type of photovoltaic modules indicated. Monocrystalline panels of those sizes have a power in the range of 310 to 340 Wp . This type of panel can be seen most often both on the roofs of buildings and on the ground.
Non-standard dimensions of photovoltaic panels.
In the case of most industrial applications, photovoltaic panels in non-standard dimensions are also used. This is related to the higher demand for electricity of the company. These modules usually consist of 72 cells and have dimensions of 100 × 200 cm, capable of reaching a power of 360-435 Wp .
How much do solar panels weigh?
Another important consideration when creating an installation is the weight generated by the photovoltaic panels. Weight is crucial for safety, especially if it is panels that are mounted on the roof of the house. If we know how much the photovoltaic panel weighs, we can calculate if the bearing capacity of the roof is sufficient or if it is necessary to install them on the ground.
A standard panel weighs 18 to 25 kg. Its weight increases with size (for example, the average weight of a 72-cell panel is around 22.5 kg).
Also, the construction of the photovoltaic panel is important for the weight. The weight of a traditional panel covered with tempered glass on the top and a protective foil on the bottom is an average of 18-20 kg. The fotov panels or ltaicos glass-glass are heavier and are protected on both sides by tempered glass. The double-glazed panels will be appreciated when cladding, among other shelters and terraces. However, if we are the owners of older buildings, in addition to the higher price, we must remember its greater weight, from 3 to 6 kg in one panel.
A standard size panel can weigh from 18 to 25 kg. The minimum load capacity of the roof on which the installation is to be mounted must be approximately 250 kg / m2 , when the average load of the modules is 20 kg / m2 . Installations with a power greater than 10 kW are usually installed on the ground using special support structures . Thanks to them, the entire structure is durable, and the panels obtain the appropriate rigidity, in addition, the correct angle is obtained to the angle of incidence of sunlight. structure support used on the roof are made of aluminum (as frames), so there is no risk of corrosion cells forming. Steel structures are used in land installations.
Are solar panels a standard size. and the size of the entire facility
It is the size of a single panel that will determine the size of the entire photovoltaic installation. The dimensions of the panels with the same number of cells are very similar in size, however, with a large number of panels, a certain difference can be noticed. It is worth bearing in mind that for the installation to meet the needs of the home, it must have a large number of photovoltaic panels. The higher the power of a single panel, the smaller the size of the photovoltaic plant that will be needed to obtain the desired performance. So by choosing a 500 Wp panel , you can save a lot of space by using the free ceiling space economically.
What to take into account when choosing the size of the photovoltaic panels and the entire installation?
The most important factor to consider when selecting panel dimensions is the size and location of the ceiling surface in relation to the directions of the world. Before all investment, it is necessary to calculate the available ceiling area in which the panels can be installed. Photovoltaic panels can also be installed on small roofs, where their surface does not exceed 150 m2 . It is important to organize the ceiling in relation to the directions of the world and if the ceiling is sometimes shaded. Solar panels should be installed facing south, southeast or southwest.
The shape of the roof is also important. Solar panels are easier to mount on a rectangular surface than on architecturally advanced structures. Another factor that plays an important role is the installation power required to meet the electrical needs of the home. The choice of the system size depends on the energy consumption of the household members. So first of all, check your electricity usage, preferably by reviewing your bills for the whole year. In this way you can obtain information on the average monthly consumption, then you should think about whether the demand for electricity will not increase in the coming years. Will the way of heating the house be changed or is the purchase of energy-consuming equipment planned? This way you should add any extra energy you need.
Taking into account the information on energy demand, you can determine the power of your photovoltaic system. The surface area and weight of the entire system must also be taken into account when deciding the size of the installation. Roofs have their own specific mounting options, sometimes they are somewhat limited by roof windows or dormers. If the building is not too new, the lighter the installation, the better. Thinking of purchasing power-hungry equipment? This way you should add any extra energy you need. With the information on energy demand, you can determine the power of your PV system.
The surface area and weight of the entire system must also be taken into account when deciding the size of the installation. Roofs have their own specific mounting options, sometimes they are somewhat limited by roof windows or dormers. If the building is not too new, the lighter the installation, the better. Thinking of purchasing power-hungry equipment? This way you should add any extra energy you need. With the information on energy demand, you can determine the power of your PV system.
The surface area and weight of the entire system must also be taken into account when deciding the size of the installation. Roofs have their own specific mounting options, sometimes they are somewhat limited by roof windows or dormers. If the building is not too new, the lighter the installation, the better. sometimes they are somewhat limited by roof windows or dormers. If the building is not too new, the lighter the installation, the better. sometimes they are somewhat limited by roof windows or dormers. If the building is not too new, the lighter the installation, the better.
Determine the energy needs of the house
To select the dimensions of the photovoltaic panels, you need information about the electricity demand of the house. In general, a family of 4 consumes an average of 1,900-2,100 kWh of electricity per year. The important thing is that the installation covers all the demand or only a part. If you know the demand for electricity, then you can calculate the power of the solar panels that will be required and the surface that will be required for their installation.
Roof area and photovoltaic installation
Before installing the panels, it is necessary to calculate what will be the ceiling area required for installation. Sometimes it happens that solar panels occupy all the free spaces on the roof, and sometimes only part of it. It is very important whether the panels will be placed in special structures on a flat roof or whether it will be a sloping roof. Other considerations are also important, such as how many windows are in the roof, how they are located and if they are with the so-called swallows.
In the case of flat roofs, the appropriate distance between the modules must be maintained in relation to the width of the shadow area. When it comes to pitched roofs, here the panels can be placed directly next to each other, tighter, to take advantage of practically most of the free space. You can calculate the ceiling area very easily, what will be needed to install the system. If, for example, a farm needs a productive 5kW power source , then modules with dimensions of 100 × 165 and a power of 250W can be used. In this way, the required space on the roof will be 35 square meters. So the dimensions of the module should be divided by the power of the module and then multiplied by the power of the generator.
Should I consider the weight and dimensions of the panels?
It is worth knowing exactly how much a single panel weighs and how heavily the installation will load the roof of the building. It is also good to familiarize yourself with the possible dimensions, as they are very important questions. It is up to them that the installation is secure. It should be remembered that the more panels installed on the ceiling, the heavier the entire installation will be, and the ceiling must support its weight.
Sometimes it happens that the ceiling is too small, so it is not possible to install the right number of panels on them to produce enough electricity. So before you buy, find out how much a single panel weighs and what its exact dimensions are. If you want to increase the power of the entire installation, you can consider installing solar panels on the roof of the garage. This is a good solution as long as a large amount of sunlight hits the roof surface. The entire system can be installed in the rooftop garage, if conditions are right.
What to do if the ceiling area is too small?
Sometimes it happens that solar panels take up much more space than the available space on the roof. Then you don’t have to give up green energy and consider installing floor panels. This is a good solution, however, to install the panels on the ground, you must have some free space in the garden. Ideally, a fenced location should be designated for the panels. Children should not have access to it. The area selected for the panels should be located away from sources of shade and on stable ground. Mounting the panels on the floor brings many benefits, first of all, we do not have to load the ceiling with heavy modules.
In addition, we have constant and easy access to the panels. At any time, we can change the position of the panels or clean them of dirt. To mount the panels on the ground, a suitable place must be chosen for them, they must face south. Installation in the garden will ensure that they are perfectly ventilated and do not overheat. Installation in the ground is initially associated with higher costs, since a special structure is needed for installation, however, this option is equally profitable. Solar panels installed in the garden also work efficiently, generating electricity.
The costs of purchasing and installing a photovoltaic installation can be significantly reduced through the use of support programs that operate throughout the country. However, because a special construction is required for installation, this option is equally cost-effective. Solar panels installed in the garden also work efficiently, generating electricity. The costs of purchasing and installing a photovoltaic installation can be significantly reduced through the use of support programs that operate throughout the country. However, because a special construction is required for installation, this option is equally cost-effective. Solar panels installed in the garden also work efficiently, generating electricity.
The dimensions of the photovoltaic panels, as well as their weight, are elements that depend on the power. All facilities must be tailored to the needs of a particular household or to the requirements of a particular business. Note that the higher the power consumption, the larger the dimensions and power of the PV module . Before deciding on the dimensions of the panels, you should consult a specialist in advance, who can carefully select the size of the entire installation, taking into account factors such as: roof strength, financial possibilities, energy demand or the degree of exposure to the Sun. ceiling.
