At Silvercrest Energy, we are frequently asked to design solar PV systems where roof space is restricted but the client wants to achieve the highest possible energy generation. Projects like these require careful planning, precise system design and technical experience to overcome challenges that less experienced installers may overlook.
This recent 25kW commercial solar installation demonstrates how the right design strategy can significantly increase both system performance and the number of panels installed.
The Challenge: Limited Roof Space and Potential Shading
The building featured a south facing flat roof, which would normally be ideal for solar PV. However, a parapet wall surrounding the roof perimeter created a significant design challenge.
Several other solar companies had already assessed the site and proposed systems that:
- Installed modules laid flat to maximise panel numbers
- Used a standard string inverter
- Designed only two string for the entire array
- Installed roughly half the number of modules ultimately achieved
While laying panels flat can sometimes increase module count, in this case it would have created a serious performance issue. During the winter months, the parapet wall would cast shadows across the first rows of panels, significantly reducing solar irradiance and overall system output. With a traditional string inverter configuration, shading on even a small section of the array can reduce the performance of the entire string.
In practice, the proposed designs may have looked efficient on paper but would likely have underperformed in real operating conditions.
The Silvercrest Energy Solution
Our design team approached the project differently. Rather than simply maximising the number of modules installed, we focused on optimising both the available space and long term system performance.
The system was designed using:
- Ballast mounted A-frame mounting systems
- South facing module orientation
- Optimised spacing to reduce winter shading
- Module level optimisation technology
This design allowed the final installation to deliver a 25kW solar PV system, significantly larger than the systems proposed by other installers while maintaining excellent performance.
Advance Solar Optimisation with SolarEdge
To ensure strong performance even where partial shading may occur, the system was specified with technology from SolarEdge Technologies.
SolarEdge systems use module level power optimisers, allowing each panel to operate independently. If one module experiences shading, the rest of the array continues to operate at maximum efficiency.
This technology is particularly effective on commercial rooftops, like this one, where parapet walls create edge shading, rooftop plant equipment casts intermittent shadows and roof layout limits ideal panel spacing.
By combining SolarEdge optimisation technology with intelligent system design, Silvercrest Energy was able to significantly increase the number of panels installed while maintaining excellent efficiency.
High Efficiency Modules: Aiko 460-465W
The system uses high performance solar modules from Aiko Solar, rated between 460-465 watts. These high efficiency modules are particularly well suited to commercial installations where roof space is limited. Their higher power output enables more energy generation per square meter, while strong performance in partially shaded conditions improves overall long term energy yield.
Using higher output panels also allows system capacity to be maximised when available roof space is constrained.
Rapid Installation: From Empty Roof to Power in 48 Hours
Another key success factor for this project was the speed of installation. All equipment was craned directly onto the roof, allowing the installation team to begin work immediately without delays associated with manual material handling.
From initial installation through to final commissioning the entire system was completed within 48 hours.
This rapid turnaround minimised disruption to building occupants and allowed the client to begin generating renewable energy almost immediately.
Why Experience Matters in Solar Design
Solar PV installations are not simply about placing as many panels as possible on a roof. Effective system design must carefully consider:
- Roof orientation and pitch
- Shading from surrounding structures
- Parapet walls and rooftop plant equipment
- Inverter configuration and string design
- Long term energy yield, not just installed capacity
At Silvercrest Energy, our design led approach ensures every solar installation delivers maximum performance, reliability and return on investment.
Planning to Maximise Your Roof Space?
If your building has limited roof space, shading challenges or a complex roof layout, Silvercrest Energy can design a solar PV system that makes the most of the available space while delivering strong long term performance.
From commercial rooftop systems to complex installations and large scale arrays, our experienced team ensures every project is designed and delivered correctly from the start.
Contact Silvercrest Energy to discuss your project and discover how a carefully engineered solar solution can help reduce energy costs and support your long term sustainability goals.
