SR-1 · Service
Solar shade reports — TSRF, TOF and solar access
In short
A solar shade report measures how much of the available sunlight actually reaches an array once trees, buildings and roof features are taken into account. It’s reported as solar access, TOF and TSRF, and it’s what incentive programs and some utilities ask for when deciding whether a system qualifies. We format the output for the incentive or interconnection submittal it’s going into.
The three numbers
| Term | What it measures |
|---|---|
| Solar access | The share of the sunlight available at the array’s location that actually reaches it after shading |
| TOF — tilt and orientation factor | How the array’s tilt and azimuth compare with the ideal for that location |
| TSRF — total solar resource fraction | Solar access multiplied by TOF: the overall share of the ideal resource the array receives |
Because TSRF combines shading with orientation, an unshaded array on a poorly oriented roof and a well-oriented array partly under a tree can end up with similar figures. The report shows both parts so a reviewer can see where the losses come from.
Who asks for one
Building departments rarely need a shade report. The usual requesters are:
- Incentive and rebate programs, several of which set a minimum TSRF for eligibility.
- Utilities, as part of some interconnection submittals.
- Production estimates, where shading losses change the output a homeowner is quoted.
What we need
The site address, the planned array layout, and photographs of anything that shades the roof — trees, neighbouring buildings, chimneys, dormers. If your program requires on-site measurements or a particular report format, say so with the order and we’ll confirm exactly what’s needed.
Pricing
Shade reports are priced per project. Mention it on the order form or get in touch, and you’ll have a figure back the same business day.