Solar energy collecting systems and methods

摘要

In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, solar energy shade structures and methods of design and revenue generation are disclosed. These systems comprise structures capable of supporting solar panel at heights greater than 18 feet above their mounting surface. These systems may be installed in confined spaces. These systems also comprise structures that are customizable, allowing an installation to be configured with a desired lighting and environmental effect. The methods discussed herein describe processes for achieving desired design effects based on natural elements. Moreover, the methods discussed herein describe processes for reducing the costs of generating solar energy and/or reducing the costs of providing a solar structure.

主权项

1. A solar energy shade structure, comprising:
a solar panel holding structure configured to support and retain a plurality of solar panels, wherein the solar panel holding structure is a planar structure, and wherein individual solar panels, of the plurality of solar panels, are attached to the solar panel holding structure at an angle inclined relative to the planar structure; a plurality of vertical supports, wherein the plurality of vertical supports are configured to hold the solar panel holding structure above a surface; and a retaining mechanism configured to attach a solar panel of the plurality of solar panels to the solar panel holding structure, wherein the retaining mechanism is accessible from underneath the solar panel for attaching and detaching solar panels, from the solar panel holding structure, from beneath the solar panel, and wherein the solar panel holding structure comprises openings through which the solar panel can be passed when installing or removing the solar panel, the solar panel being rotatable such that the solar panel can be passed through the openings between a top side of the solar panel holding structure and a bottom side of the solar panel holding structure when installing or removing the solar panel; wherein the majority of the plurality of solar panels are attached to the solar panel holding structure at an angle that is inclined relative to level, and wherein the solar energy shade structure is configured such that natural light is permitted to pass through the solar panel holding structure.