Solar Panels Above HVAC Equipment
Yes. Elevated commercial solar racking systems can be engineered to position solar panels above existing HVAC units and other rooftop equipment, subject to structural, clearance, ventilation, safety, and maintenance requirements. This approach can increase usable installation area on crowded commercial rooftops.
How it works
The racking stands on posts tall enough to clear the equipment, and the panels form a canopy over it. Our W System and Elevated Flush Mount System stand 3–7 ft on the low side, and the High Tilt System reaches up to 20 ft.
The canopy also shades the roof and the equipment below it. One condo board member told us the canopy "provides shade protection to our roof and the related HVAC systems."
Projects built over rooftop equipment
| Project | Size | System | Canopy height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burr | 725.7 kW | W System and Elevated Flush Mount | 5–6 ft |
| Fitch & G St. | 700 kW | W System | 5–6 ft |
| Cityline – Solar Solutions and HESP | 535 kW | Elevated Flush Mount | 7–9 ft |
| Washington Square | 522 kW | W System, Flush Mount and High Tilt | 1–20 ft |
| Lafayette | 385 kW | Flush Mount and Elevated Flush Mount | 2–4 ft |
| 3801 Connecticut Ave. | 297.3 kW | W System | 5–7 ft |
Discuss your project
Tell us about the building. We reply by email or phone.