1 Meter = 1 Meter but not in solar
Spot the problem in the picture. The module is of a standard 1m x 2m. It looks pretty good. 8 modules per row and total 6 rows to make up a good installation of 48 panels. But, think again. This may look right but has some inherent problems. The problem lies in the fact that the panels are NOT stuck to each other as is many a time overlooked even by professional contractors.
The modules are mounting on rail and clamps arrangement usually. These clamps create a panel to panel gap of about 5cm (gap + 2 x thickness of the clamp – in a U-Clamp). These 5cm gaps add up to significant value and leave you with no roof for that last 1 or 2 panels.
Therefore, 1M panel is actually 1.05m when installed!