Our residential systems are typically rooftop designs. Residential systems refer to microFIT powered systems and do not necessarily have to be mounted on a residential property. If you own a commercial property or land for which you would like to install a microFIT system generating 10kW or less in size, this section is also useful.
There are several key factors to consider when designing a rooftop solar system. Ideally, your roof should be:
- South-facing and sloped at thirty degree
- Not shaded by surrounding foliage
- In good condition and not in need of repair or re-shingling
If some of these factors do not apply to your roof, it does not mean your project cannot be profitable. We will work out a solution that will maximize your ability to harvest the most out of your roof during our survey stage.
Roof Structure
To increase a big portion of the solar system's efficiency, the rooftop type and condition must be carefully analyzed. BlueStar Solar Agents installers have extensive experience dealing with virtually all rooftop types - residential and commercial - including:
- Asphalt Shingle Roofs
- Various Metal Roofs
- Flat Roofs
- Commercial inverted Roofs
The age of the roof is an important factor. If your roof id more than 10-15 years old, we recommend updating before installing a solar system. During our site assessment, we will be able to examine the roof's condition if you are unfamiliar when it was last modified. There is also a possibility of using durable plastic racking to decrease the weight factor of the system. While it is not uncommon to remove and replace a solar system to allow for re-roofing, it is obviously more cost effective to minimize the need in the future. Since a portion of our installers were in the roofing business BlueStar Solar/Blue Star Solar Agents will offer a competitive bundle if you choose to install any of our systems.
Pitched Roofs:
The most cost effective location for solar panels is a pitched roof. The ideal angle for solar panels in Ontario is 30-35 degrees (8/12 pitch).
Based on PVWATTS, using a south facing roof, (180 degrees azimuth) the figures are:
The Steps:
Following the initial phases of the project which includes applying for the incentive program and assessing your property, BlueStar Solar/Blue Star Solar Agents will provide the following:
- Custom design the system for your rooftop with several options
- Acquiring all the municipal permits and other legal paper work
- Detailed energy projections and financing options
- Installation and commissioning the solar system
- Ongoing support and optional System management through our website
OPA Approved Candidates:
If you already have a conditional offer you may be eligible for a priority discount. Contact BlueStar Solar today to explore the options.
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