Solar panels for townhouse or duplex: peculiarities
Townhouses usually have half the roof in suboptimal orientation. How to maximize and tricks with the neighbor.
A typical townhouse has a gable roof on east-west axis. One slope facing north (bad) and one south (good). Or worse: two slopes east and west. Here's how to maximize.
Single south-facing slope
If your south slope is 320-430 sqft, easily fits 8-10 panels. Covers 4 kWp = typical family consumption. North slope left empty. Typical 30° pitch: optimal for most US states.
East-west roof
Solution: panels split across both slopes. Production 15% below pure south. But flatter production curve (morning east, afternoon west): better for continuous self-consumption.
The shared wall problem
If your neighbor installs first and puts panels near the shared wall, they can shade you at sunrise/sunset. Negotiate with neighbor or install first. Leave 3 ft margin at the edge for your future expansion.
Sharing install with neighbor
Some states allow shared community solar between adjacent homes. You and neighbor share a single 8-10 kWp install with coefficients. Save on install, better $/kWp, faster payback. Requires legal agreement.
Typical panel count
1600-2200 sqft townhouse with family of 4: 5-7 kWp = 12-17 panels. Plan for heat pump + EV in 5 years: 8-10 kWp. Better oversize at install (single rack) than expand later.
Compare with 1600 sqft home.
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