Can You Install Solar Panels On A Shed In Snow Country?

Calculating Solar Panel Snow Load

When installing solar panels on a shed in snow country, it’s crucial to calculate the solar panel snow load to ensure the structure can support it. A typical snow load for a shed roof in areas with heavy snowfall is around 30-40 pounds per square foot (psf). However, solar panels increase the roof’s surface area, which can increase the snow load. To account for this, you can add an additional 10-15 psf to the calculated snow load. For example, if the shed’s roof has a surface area of 400 square feet, the total snow load would be 30-40 psf x 400 sq ft = 12,000-16,000 pounds. With solar panels, this could increase to 42-55 psf x 400 sq ft = 16,800-22,000 pounds.

Ensuring Roof Structure and Solar Panel Mounting

To ensure the shed’s roof structure and solar panel mounting can support the additional weight, you should consult with a structural engineer to assess the shed’s roof load capacity. They can provide guidance on the maximum permissible load and recommend reinforcement options if necessary. For the solar panel mounting system, choose a racking system that is specifically designed for heavy snow loads and can distribute the weight evenly across the roof. Some popular solar panel racking systems that can handle high snow loads include the “clamp-on” type and the “stand-off” type, which can provide a clear path for snow to slide off the panels.

Additional Considerations for Snowy Conditions

In addition to calculating the snow load and ensuring the roof structure and solar panel mounting can support it, consider the following factors when installing solar panels on a shed in snow country:

• Choose solar panels with a high snow load rating (e.g., 50 psf or higher).
• Use a snow rake or other snow removal tool to clear snow from the solar panels during heavy snowfall events.
• Consider installing a solar panel tracking system that can adjust the angle of the panels to maximize energy production during snow-covered periods.
• Regularly inspect the solar panel mounting system and roof structure to ensure they can continue to support the weight and loads imposed by snow accumulation.