Housing societies in urban areas are rapidly adopting solar energy to cut electricity bills and embrace sustainability. However, the unique challenges of installing solar panels in high-rise buildings—such as limited space, shading issues, and wind exposure—demand specialized solutions. Efficient mounting structures for high-rise buildings are the backbone of these installations, providing the stability and functionality needed to maximize energy output.
In this article, we explore the types of mounting structures and their significance for solar installations in housing societies.
Challenges of Solar Installation in High-Rise Buildings
Solar installation in housing societies often face the following challenges:
- Space Constraints: Rooftops are shared areas with water tanks, HVAC units, or recreational zones.
- Shading: Tall structures and nearby buildings can cast shadows, reducing solar efficiency.
- Wind Loads: High-rise rooftops are exposed to strong winds, requiring robust mounting solutions.
- Usability of Space: Residents prefer designs that allow space beneath the panels to remain usable.
Specialized mounting structures for high-rise buildings address these challenges while ensuring long-term performance.
Types of Mounting Structures for High-Rise Buildings
1. Roof-Hugging Structures
Designed to stay close to the roof, these structures are lightweight and cost-effective.
Features:
- Non-Penetrative Design: Ideal for flat concrete roofs, no drilling is required.
- Material: Aluminium 6063-T6 or hot-dip galvanized iron (HDGI) with rust-proof coatings.
- Best Use Case: Suitable for shadow-free, spacious rooftops.
Advantages: Affordable, quick to install, and lightweight.
Drawbacks: Limited space usage and less effective in shaded conditions.
2. Raised-Elevated Structures
These structures elevate panels about 2 meters above the roof, maximizing usability and efficiency.
Features:
- Penetrative Design: Requires drilling for stability.
- Material: Heavy-duty HDGI designed to withstand high winds (up to 170 km/h).
- Best Use Case: Recommended for rooftops with shading or limited space.
Advantages: Allows space for recreation or storage, mitigates shading, and improves airflow for better efficiency.
Drawbacks: Higher costs due to material and installation complexity.
Roof-Hugging vs. Raised-Elevated Structures
| Feature | Roof-Hugging | Raised-Elevated |
| Design | Non-penetrative | Penetrative |
| Height Clearance | ~500 mm | ~2000 mm |
| Cost | Lower | 30–50% higher |
| Space Utilization Beneath | Limited | Ample |
| Best Use Case | Spacious, shadow-free roofs | Shaded or space-constrained roofs |
Benefits of Elevated Mounting Structures
Elevated mounting structures for high-rise buildings offer:
- Enhanced Efficiency: Avoid shadows and improve airflow for better panel cooling.
- Space Utilization: The area beneath panels can be used for gatherings, gardening, or storage.
- Durability: Built to withstand high winds and last over 25 years.
- Future-Proofing: Accommodates changing rooftop needs.
Efficient mounting structures for high-rise buildings are essential for housing societies transitioning to solar power. With raised-elevated and roof-hugging options, societies can choose solutions tailored to their rooftop conditions. These structures ensure safety, optimize energy generation, and maximize the functionality of shared rooftop spaces, making solar power an invaluable asset for modern urban living.
Stay tuned to our blog for more informative content. Get in touch with ZunRoof for free consultation on solar rooftop for housing societies.