Solar Array
A solar array is a collection of multiple solar modules (panels) connected together — both physically on a mounting structure and electrically — to form a larger power-generating system. The array is the complete solar generation assembly, which then connects through wiring and inverters to the rest of the electrical system.
An array can be as small as six panels on a residential rooftop (forming one string) or as large as millions of panels on a 1,000+ MW utility-scale solar farm.
Array Configurations
Series connection (string): Panels connected positive-to-negative in sequence, adding voltages while keeping current constant. Typical residential string: 8–15 panels.
Parallel connection: Panels or strings connected positive-to-positive and negative-to-negative, adding current while keeping voltage constant.
Series-parallel combination: Most residential and commercial arrays use series strings connected in parallel at a combiner box, balancing voltage and current for optimal inverter input.
Array Sizing
Array sizing depends on:
- Available roof or land area
- Target system size (kW)
- Module dimensions and power
- Required setbacks and spacing between rows
Ground-mount land requirement: Approximately 5–7 acres per MW for fixed-tilt, 6–9 acres/MW for single-axis tracking (accounting for row spacing to avoid self-shading).
Rooftop packing density: Approximately 8–15 W/ft² of roof area (accounting for setbacks, obstructions, and inter-row spacing).
SolarScope's Site Studio helps estimate array capacity by drawing polygons on satellite imagery and automatically calculating area and approximate panel count.