Inter-row Spacing Calculator (Ground Mount)
Calculates minimum spacing to avoid row-to-row shading within a chosen time window on a chosen date.
Uses your device location (permission prompt).
Auto-estimated from longitude (no DST). You can override if needed.
Typical “worst case” is winter solstice (~Dec 21).
Start
End
If the rack is elevated, spacing increases.
Advanced assumes rows run East–West and face the equator.
Default 0.2 m (~8 in). Helps with uneven ground and build tolerance.
Notes
- Time-window tradeoffs (typical fixed-tilt ground mounts):
- 10–2: “tight and cheap” — acceptable if land is tight or winter yield is less critical
- 9–3: “balanced” — strong winter yield without excessive land use
- 8–4: “winter-prioritized” — larger footprint, good for off-grid reliability
- 9–5: usually “overkill” for most fixed-tilt sites unless winter late-afternoon production is truly mission-critical
- Sampling: Solar position is sampled every 5 minutes within your selected window to find the worst-case sun elevation.
- Timezone: The calculator estimates UTC offset from longitude (no DST). If you’re near a timezone border or using daylight saving time, override the timezone value.
- Site realities: Terrain slope, uneven foundations, and vegetation can require more spacing in the field.
Results will appear here.
Enter your site + rack details and click Calculate.
Practical tip: If winter reliability matters (off-grid / batteries), pick a winter date and a wider time window.
If land is tight, you may accept some winter shading.