DIY Solar for Farms | Easy Ground Mounted Solar Panel Install Walkthrough

Power Up Your Farm with Solar Energy!
Check out our short walkthrough on a standard DIY ground-mounted solar array for farms. Learn the crucial components, installation steps, and the best inverters for maximizing efficiency.
Key Highlights:
Component Overview: Get to know your solar system's parts and their functions.
Easy Installation: Follow our straightforward guide to install your array.
Inverter Options: Learn the pro's and con's of micro inverters, string inverters, and power optimizers.
Scalability Importance: See why and how to scale your system for changing energy needs over time.
Cost Savings: Discover tax benefits and how to slash bills to $45/month amid rising rates.
Perfect for farmers ready to reduce costs and scale operations.
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[@NickWindham]

Great looking install! The expense of optimizers couldn’t have been forgone, but yeah, you can’t see panel level data without them.
However, the Christmas light analogy is isn’t applicable anymore. Even without optimizers, panels have diodes now that reduce that effect dramatically.

[@prairiesunsolar]

Great point! Modern panels do have bypass diodes to reduce shading effects, but shading can still cause power loss. With optimizers like SolarEdge, you can recover more power that would otherwise be lost, even under shading.
Have you had the chance to notice any difference in performance with or without optimizers in your installations? We want to make sure we're giving Canadians the most honest answers when it comes to DIY Solar!

[@bluezcluez315]

Location latitude? I think I heard Saskatchewan
Tilt angle? 35 degree?
Any options for seasonal-adjust tilt?
It looks like this has almost no shading; I would have passed on the optimizers.

[@prairiesunsolar]

Great questions! Yes, this system (and our office) is located in Saskatchewan. The latitude is approximately 51°, and the 35° tilt angle is typical for the area. This system uses a fixed position, but seasonal-adjust tilt is an option to optimize performance throughout the year.
Even with minimal shading, factors like tilt, horizon, and soiling (especially during harvest) can impact efficiency, which is why we always recommend optimizers. They ensure maximum performance by addressing even small variations in panel output. Bifacial panels could also help capture extra light from the back.
Additionally, structural considerations, like foundations and wind load, are important, especially with higher tilt angles, as stronger structures are needed to handle increased wind forces.
Thanks for adding to the discussion!