Then the height can be calculated as: h = 1.0 * sin (30) = 0.50 Now we are ready to calculate the distance between the panels. D = h / tan (Inclination) = 0.50 / tan (22.33) = 1.22 m (this is the distance without Solar Azimuth Correction) d = D * cos (180-Azimuth) = 1.22 * cos (44.5) = 0.87 (this is the distance with Solar Azimuth Correction)
The optimal direction for solar panels is decided by the azimuth angle of the sun. This factor, along with the tilt angle, is important in optimizing the orientation of the solar panels. Optimal direction accounts for both hourly as well as seasonal changes in the sun’s position.
If your system consists of two or more rows of PV panels, you must make sure that each row of panels does not shade the row behind it. To determine the correct row-to-row spacing, refer to the figure above. There is no single correct answer since the solar elevation starts at zero in the morning and ends at zero in the evening.
300Watt and 350Watt panels should be at least 0.5m (1.5 feet) or more from the floor – and the larger panels (basically anything over 600Watts) should be at least 1.5m (5 feet) away. When the panels are on they will beam the infrared radiation up to 3m (10 feet).
It is best to leave four to seven inches of space between two solar panels. Again, this accommodates the solar panels’ expansion and contraction during the day. How Much Gap Should Be Between Solar Panel Rows?
The gap between the last row of solar panels and the roof’s edge should be a minimum of 12 inches or one foot. This ensures the panels are accommodated as they expand and contract during the day. See also: Mounting Solar Panels: A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Installation How Much Gap Should Be Between Two Solar Panels?