Architect leads by example with high-performing residential solar

Introduction

Overcoming orientation challenges to maximize solar savings

As a successful architect, Voltolini understood the importance of incorporating sustainable practices into his projects. He wanted to lead by example and showcase the benefits of solar energy to his clients.

The problem was, the only suitable installation site for his properties was the southwest-facing roof of his beach house, which also featured chimneys likely to cause shading issues.

Generally, in the Southern Hemisphere, north-facing roof orientations are considered ideal for solar panel installation because they receive the most sunlight throughout the day.

Undeterred, Voltolini partnered with installer Trends Solar Energy to find the best solution possible.

They successfully designed a system that maximizes energy production on the southwest-facing roof to reduce non-renewable energy consumption across Voltolini's three properties.

Trends Solar Energy knew that module-level optimization would be key to overcoming the challenges posed by the southwest-facing roof. After conducting a thorough site analysis and energy consumption assessment, they designed a 13.56 kW system featuring six Hoymiles HMS-1800-4T microinverters. Hoymiles' microinverters lent two key advantages to this project:

• Independent maximum power point tracking (MPPT): With each microinverter capable of connecting up to four panels with independent MPPT, the system could mitigate the impact of shading and ensure optimal performance for each module.

• High peak output power: The HMS-1800-4T's rated output of 1,800 VA suited this compact but high-capacity solar array.

Harnessing the benefits of Hoymiles microinverters, Trends Solar Energy successfully designed a system that effectively mitigates the impact of shading while delivering exceptional performance and reliability in all conditions.

Voltolini's roof faced southwest, which isn't ideal in Brazil, and was also complicated by shading from chimneys and a nearby telegraph pole.

Despite the challenging roof orientation, the 13.56 kW system is projected to generate an impressive 17,380 kWh of clean energy annually, offsetting considerable non-renewable energy consumption across Voltolini’s three properties.

Financially, the system is expected to deliver a remarkable 21.8% annual return on investment (ROI), showcasing the economic benefits of solar energy even in less-than-ideal installation scenarios.

The finished system is projected to deliver 17,380 kWh of clean energy annually.

For Voltolini, the success of this project extends beyond the substantial energy bill savings and impressive ROI.

By installing a high-performing solar array on his beach house, he has created a tangible example of sustainable design in action – an example he can share with his clients.

This case study demonstrates that with the right design approach, innovative technology, and expert installation, it's possible to maximize solar potential and achieve impressive results, even on a less-than-perfect roof.