Types of supports for solar installations

The installation of solar panels on the ground or on the roof is done with support for solar panels, then I will tell you Types of supports for solar installations.

Choosing solar panels is just as important as choosing solar mounts. And it is that these components influence, to a great extent, the correct functioning of the photovoltaic solar installation —since they provide an optimal orientation of the solar panels, avoiding shadows and the possibility of producing a hot spot.

Types of supports for solar installations

In this article we want to explain what the different types of supports for solar panels are and which are the most recommended depending on the installation you plan to carry out. Keep reading this article for more information.

What are solar mounts and what are they for?

The solar supports, or structure of the solar panels, are the pieces that  define the orientation that the different solar panels will have  depending on the type of installation that is carried out, as well as the power, the number of panels and the place in which they are installed. install. These supports provide a  firm hold  for the solar panels and the orientation they need to take full advantage of solar radiation and the photovoltaic effect that is generated in them.

The different types of supports for solar panels are made of very resistant materials, since they will remain outdoors for years. Thus, we can find supports made of  aluminum  —which are very light— those of  galvanized or stainless steel  —to ensure resistance— or those of  concrete . Solar panel supports can be sold separately —in any of the different types that exist— or be included in kits —with the recommended dimensions and characteristics for proper installation—.

Types of supports for solar panels

We can find several types of supports for solar panels that vary depending on the location, as well as the appearance and characteristics of the structure. Most of these models are  available with a 30º tilt, 60º tilt, or adjustable tilt  —so they can be adjusted to suit conditions anywhere. You must bear in mind that there are several classifications of the types of supports for solar panels. In our case, we use the one we consider most appropriate, looking at the place of installation. These are the different types of solar mounts:

Solar mounts for flat roofs

These are the solar panel mounts that are installed on the ground or on a flat roof. These can, in turn, be distinguished between those that have an individual structure and those that have an inclined triangle structure. We explain it to you:

• Solar supports with individual structure : These supports are designed to be installed on terraces or flat roofs. Their orientation is horizontal. This type of installation is used when the number of solar panels is small.
• Solar supports with  inclined triangle structure : These are the supports that are installed on terraces or roofs with flat ground. The modules, in this case, go vertically. They are one of the most economical models – and offer a greater capacity than the previous ones.

Solar mounts for pitched roofs

This type of supports for solar panels are designed to be installed on sloping roofs, such as the gabled roof of tiles. In this type of solar support we can also find two different models. These are:

• Solar supports with coplanar structure : They are those that are used on inclined surfaces. These adapt to the roof and maintain the necessary slope. They are simple, practical and do not generate a great visual impact once the solar panels are installed.
• Other designs : Those that are used for specific issues, such as the installation of custom solar farms or for sandwich-type roofs.

Solar supports for sheet metal roof

These solar supports have the same characteristics as those of the flat roof. Being able to find them with an individual structure or with an inclined triangle structure. Likewise, we can find inclined supports for sheet metal roofs —with an inclination—, such as the continuous coplanar support that is fixed to the sheets, the vertical coplanar support or the horizontal microrail coplanar support.

Solar supports on canopies

In this case, we find solar supports that  function as a canopy  —which can serve to protect the entrance of a building or business, the porch of a house, or the parking lot of a shopping center, among others— and that, in addition, have solar panels to generate power. The solar supports on canopies are available in different sizes and capacities, however, the particularity of this  structure is that it is high .

Mobile solar mounts

It is the most modern type of support for solar panels that exists. Its operation is more complex than the rest —but also much more profitable—. And it is that these solar panels have mobile axes with sensors that are responsible for following the movement of the sun, making the most of solar radiation to generate energy.

The mobile structures perform a  movement similar to that of sunflowers  autonomously, however, their installation requires greater electrical consumption and their mechanical complexity may involve more maintenance operations. In any case, the investment is compensated since these supports —and their corresponding installation—  allow production to be increased by between 15% and 40%.

What should be the orientation of the solar panels in Spain?

Although we have already talked about it on several occasions, the inclination of the solar panels greatly influences the production and use of solar radiation. In Spain, the inclination depends on the region, being able to distinguish between the northern and southern areas. In the case of the south of the peninsula, it is recommended that the inclination be  between 20º and 25º ; while in the north the inclination must be  about 40º ,

approximately. This will help you avoid the appearance of  shadows on the solar panels . And it is that the closer to the equator the region of the country is, the lower the inclination that the solar panels need. Likewise, the most recommended orientation —in general— in Spain should be towards the South.