Inter-Module Spacing, Inter-Module Spaces

[awhite]

Hi, can someone please explain what these two terms mean and their significance? They are entries on the permit application. The system is a 5kW system with 18 280w panels, so its either going to be 9 panels in 2 rows portrait or 6 panels x 3 rows, landscape. Thanks in advance for any information.

[J.P.M.]

Hi, can someone please explain what these two terms mean and their significance? They are entries on the permit application. The system is a 5kW system with 18 280w panels, so its either going to be 9 panels in 2 rows portrait or 6 panels x 3 rows, landscape. Thanks in advance for any information.

"Portrait" or "landscape" usually refers to panel orientation. Panels with their short side(s) parallel to the horizontal are in portrait orientation. Panels with their long side(s) parallel to the horizontal are in landscape orientation. Probably the same distinction applies to entire arrays. FWIW, 9 X 2 will give more accessibility to all 18 panels. 3 X 6 may limit accessibility for 6 panels in the middle row if the array is close packed. Footprint will probably be similar in either arrangement if close packed (that is, little if any space between panels).

[awhite]

"Portrait" or "landscape" usually refers to panel orientation. Panels with their short side(s) parallel to the horizontal are in portrait orientation. Panels with their long side(s) parallel to the horizontal are in landscape orientation. Probably the same distinction applies to entire arrays. FWIW, 9 X 2 will give more accessibility to all 18 panels. 3 X 6 may limit accessibility for 6 panels in the middle row if the array is close packed. Footprint will probably be similar in either arrangement if close packed (that is, little if any space between panels).

Thank you, i didn't think about accessibility. My question was for understanding "inter-module spacing, inter-module spaces". It's for the structural information worksheet for the permit. Is that the space (inches) between each mounted panel and the number of spaces between each panel in the whole array ?

[J.P.M.]

Thank you, i didn't think about accessibility. My question was for understanding "inter-module spacing, inter-module spaces". It's for the structural information worksheet for the permit. Is that the space (inches) between each mounted panel and the number of spaces between each panel in the whole array ?

I'm unsure. Perhaps those terms refer to clearances between panels. I'd Call the permitting authority for clarification.

[inetdog]

I'm unsure. Perhaps those terms refer to clearances between panels. I'd Call the permitting authority for clarification.

Two things come to mind, which leaves you again needing to talk to the authority.

Inter-module spacing could either be the space between adjacent panels or the center to center spacing of the panel.
But inter-module spaces pretty unambiguously refers to the space between the edges of adjacent modules. That space may be open, possibly reducing wind loading, or could be filled with a trim strip.