Solar PV is a renewable technology that converts the sun's energy into electricity. Each panel is made up of small solar cells consisting of semi-conductive material, commonly made from silicon. This material is used to convert the solar radiation into electricity. When light shines on the cell an electric field is created across the layers, causing electrons to flow and electricity to be generated. Each cell generates a bit of electricity and when connected to form panels and deployed in an array, useful amounts of electricity can be generated. There are two types of solar mounting options: roof mounted and ground mounted.

Roof mounted solar PV is simply where the panels are attached to the roof of a building, on either pitched or flat roofs. On a pitched roof, the panels can be mounted with brackets or embedded into the roof structure to be flush with the roof covering. For flat roof installation, the panels should be mounted on a supporting frame to ensure an optimum tilt angle for maximum performance. The frame can then be bolted to the roof or anchored securely.

The suitability of the roof that the panels are to be attached to is of paramount importance from both a structural and a geospatial perspective.

In the UK, solar panels are most effective when placed on a south facing roof. However, solar panels are also a viable option if the roof is an east or west orientation, the overall yield will be less than an equivalent south facing array - however a site’s generation profile could correlate more closely with the site’s electricity demand.
The pitch of the roof is also an important factor, with solar panels being most effective at 30-35 degrees for sites in the UK.

For flat roof mounted systems, the optimal pitch and orientation (considering any obstacles that would cause shading) can be achieved using a frame.

The biggest impact on the generation yield of a solar PV system is shading, e.g. by trees, other buildings or any other items on the roof. This is particularly important when it comes to spacing solar PV arrays (rows of connected panels) in parallel rows on a flat roof.

While this is not a concern on pitched roofs, as panels can simply be placed above or below other panels, rows of panels on flat roofs needs to be placed in front of or behind other rows and they can cast a substantial
shadow at low sun angles. Therefore, panels need to be carefully spaced on flat roofs, considering the height
and tilt angle of the panel, the latitude of the site and the angle of the sun path.

Finally, roof integrity and structure will need to be assessed to determine if the roof can take the additional load. Any additional strengthening work that may be required can take place at the same time as the panel installation.

If the roof is deemed to be unsuitable for installation, due to size or structural integrity for example, ground mounted solar PV could be an effective alternative.