Page 91 - Alternative Energy Systems in Building Design
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CRYSTALLINE, AMORPHOUS, THIN-FILM, AND SUN-TRACKER TECHNOLOGIES  67





































                        Figure 3.31  SunSlate solar power roofing. Photo courtesy of Atlantis Energy Systems.




                         MegaSlate is an ideal, simple, and cost-effective solution for owners, architects, and
                       planners who intend to implement functional yet also aesthetically appealing roofs. It
                       provides simple and fast system assembly that can be installed very rapidly, saving a
                       significant amount of time for owners and contractors alike.


                       Power production requirements To obtain maximum output production effi-
                       ciency, MegaSlate systems should conform to the following recommendations:

                       ■ The orientation of the roof preferably should be facing south (east over south to
                         west).
                       ■ The PV-area exposure to sunlight always should remain unshaded.
                       ■ The PV-mounted area must be sufficiently large and unobstructed.
                       ■ For optimal efficiency, the PV support rafters or platform must have a 20-degree
                         tilt.


                       Potential annual power production Considering a system with optimal orien-
                       tation and an installed power of 1 kWp (kilowatt peak), which corresponds to an area
                            2
                       of 9 m , an average annual yield of around 980–1200 kWh or more can be anticipated
                       in most parts of North America. Under adequate geoclimatic conditions, a PV system
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