The Renewables Blog

Installing photovoltaic panels: roof requirements

Mar 7, 2024 | Photovoltaic systems

By now, the advantages of solar energy are known to more and more entrepreneurs. If you own a company with a physical location, i.e. you are the owner of the property and benefit from the energy produced by the hypothetical system, then you might consider installing a photovoltaic system on the roof of your company for hire.

If you want to know how this service offered by Heiwit works, read on. In this article, we want to focus in particular on what the roof requirements for installing a photovoltaic system for companies. Read on and, if at the end of the content, you would like to know more about how our support works for your savings and the decarbonisation, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Roof requirements for photovoltaic panel installation

What we do for companies

Heiwit is an innovative project designed to facilitate the energy transition, focusing on the’installation of renewable energy production plants directly at consumption sites. Our primary objective is to install photovoltaic systems on the roofs of energy-intensive companies, concluding supply contracts with them for the sale of the energy produced and paying a fee for occupying the roof. All the plants we realise operate in grid parity, without any recourse to government incentives, producing energy at a lower cost than plants based on fossil resources.

Globally, Heiwit is a recognised brand throughout Europe, committed to green projects in line with the objectives of the Energy Climate 2030 on energy transition. These include enhancing renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, ensuring energy security, promoting the internal market and supporting research, innovation and competitiveness.

Our service is distinguished by its advanced methodology, which begins with a detailed roof inspection, using state-of-the-art technology such as the powerful Google Solar API to obtain an accurate assessment of annual potential production. We then carefully analyse the data collected to optimise the performance of the photovoltaic system, ensuring optimal efficiency in line with the company's consumption. We then draw up customised contracts to regulate the relationship between Heiwit and the client company, with a focus on transparency and customisation.

Once the design and planning phase is complete, we start the installation procedures with speed and precision, thanks to our nationwide network of reliable partners. We handle all the necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. Once the system is operational, we constantly monitor it from our servers to ensure maximum efficiency, carrying out regular maintenance checks and annual maintenance to ensure its perfect functioning over time.

But to do all this, are there any requirements?

Requirements for photovoltaic system installation on company roof

What are the characteristics needed to be eligible for the Heiwit project? Let's look at them all:

  • Having the ownership of the property in the name of the same company that occupies it and benefits from the energy produced by the plant
  • Having a compliant and recently renovated roof. This means that the roof must be able to bear the additional weight of the solar panels and their supporting structures, as well as withstand environmental stresses such as wind, rain, snow and extreme temperatures. An inadequate roof could be unstable or damaged during the installation of the solar panels, jeopardising the safety of people and the life of the system itself
  • The size of the roof must be sufficient to accommodate the photovoltaic system, taking into account both the expected power of the system and any space restrictions due to the building configuration
  • The orientation of the photovoltaic system should be south, with an ideal azimuth angle of 0°, to maximise solar radiation and thus the energy efficiency of the system. The inclination of the solar panels, on the other hand, should be related to the latitude of the installation site to optimise energy production. Generally, an inclination similar to the latitude of the site is recommended, with a typical range between 30° and 40°.
  • It is essential to conduct a detailed analysis of potential shading on the company's roof in order to avoid any obstacles that could compromise the performance of the photovoltaic system. This analysis may include checking for surrounding buildings, trees or other structures that could create shadows on the solar panels
  • Consume between 80 and 200 kWh per square metre of roof area per year (e.g. a company with a 1,000 m2 hall consumes between 80,000 and 200,000 kWh per year)

Before proceeding with the installation, it is necessary to obtain all the necessary building authorisations from local authorities. This may include building permits, landscape permits and other legal documents required for the installation of photovoltaic systems. By carefully considering these requirements and following the regulations in force, it is possible to ensure an effective and safe installation of photovoltaic panels on a company roof, thus contributing to the transition to a more sustainable energy system and reducing the company's environmental impact.

Conclusions

The installation of a photovoltaic system on a company roof requires a careful and thorough evaluation of the technical, regulatory and economic requirements. The availability of a suitable space, optimal orientation of the photovoltaic panels, correct tilt and analysis of shading are just some of the key considerations to be taken into account. It is also essential to check the structural soundness of the roof and obtain the necessary building permits before proceeding with installation.

For companies interested in implementing a photovoltaic system on their roof, it is advisable to rely on qualified and experienced professionals in the field who can provide customised advice and optimised solutions to maximise the energy efficiency and profitability of the system. Investing in solar energy is not only a sustainable choice, but also an opportunity to reduce long-term energy costs and contribute to the fight against climate change.

In this context, Heiwit stands out for its commitment to offering innovative, tailor-made solutions for companies wishing to embrace solar energy. Through advanced methodology and extensive industry experience, Heiwit supports companies throughout the entire process, from the initial assessment to the design and installation of the PV system. Moreover, with an approach focused on transparency, reliability and efficiency, Heiwit is committed to providing corporate rooftop photovoltaic solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and performance.

The installation of a photovoltaic system on a company roof represents a significant opportunity for companies to reduce their environmental footprint, improve their sustainability and reduce energy costs. With the right planning, advice and professional support, companies can reap the benefits of solar energy and help build a more sustainable and prosperous future. Contact us to learn more.