There are different types of structures for photovoltaic panel installations. Each of them adapts to different requirements and needs depending on different factors such as the terrain where they are installed or the weather conditions.
FIXED, MOBILE AND FLOATING STRUCTURES
As Spain is one of the European countries with the most hours of sunshine, photovoltaic solar energy is very useful and efficient.
There are different types of structures for the installation of photovoltaic panels, adapting to different requirements and needs depending on factors such as the terrain, the climate, the need to move the panels or not, etc. We can highlight the following structures:
Structures fixed to the ground:
This type of structure is the most common to see. They consist of installations using 41x41x2.5 mm thick strut rails that allow the installation of photovoltaic panels on top. To make this type of installation, a prior study must be carried out on the inclination and forces that the installation must withstand, taking into account the strength of the wind, weather conditions and the terrain on which it is to be installed. In this way, future damage to the installation can be avoided.
Mobile structures:
Mobile structures are the ones that have a higher cost and require a longer installation time, as well as more complex systems. They are installed when there is a need to move the solar panels in order to capture sunlight. Depending on the location, nearby obstacles or metrological conditions, this type of installation may be necessary, otherwise the photovoltaic panels will not capture enough sunlight and we will be losing energy.
Floating structures:
These structures are one of the newest systems to be applied to photovoltaic panels. How are they installed? In the water by means of floating modules. With this system, large numbers of photovoltaic panels can be installed without the need to occupy agricultural land and take up space for other services. In addition, it generates benefits for the ecosystems in which they are installed, as they reduce the temperature of the water and, as a consequence, its evaporation.
Today, we can consider photovoltaics as one of the fundamental pillars of energy demand.