Project Category
Release Time: Apr 18,2025
13.6 kW Rooftop Solar PV System at Xiamen University
13.6 kW Rooftop Solar PV System at Xiamen University Jiageng College
1. Project Overview
In late 2019, our team successfully delivered a 13.6 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Xiamen University’s Jiageng College campus. Designed to sit atop the college’s color‐steel tile roofs, this system not only generates clean electricity for campus operations, but also serves as a visible demonstration of the university’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy education. From initial site survey to grid‐connection, the entire project was executed within a compact two‐week window, showcasing our ability to mobilize resources rapidly while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.
2. Site and Architectural Context
container‐style building with expansive glass walls and a timber‐decked terrace below. The white color‐steel tile roof presented both an opportunity and a challenge: its gentle pitch and corrugated profile allow for easy mounting of PV modules, yet require careful planning to ensure water drainage and structural integrity. Our design team conducted an in depth structural analysis to confirm that the roof could support the additional load of PV panels, mounting rails, and associated hardware without reinforcement.
3. System Design and Component Selection
The system comprises 30 monocrystalline PV modules, each rated at approximately 450 W, for a total installed capacity of 13.6 kW. We selected high‐efficiency modules with superior lowirradiance performance to maximize energy yield during cloudy winter days typical of Fujian Province. The modules are arranged in four eastwest rows, oriented to capture morning and afternoon sunlight. A string inverter with integrated monitoring was chosen for its compact footprint and gridsupport functionalities, including antiislanding protection, reactive power control, and remote performance monitoring via a web portal.
4. Innovative Mounting Solution: Raised Panel Configuration
One distinctive feature of this installation is our decision to elevate the PV modules on the southfacing side of the roof by 10 cm. Rather than lying flat against the corrugated steel, the modules are mounted on angled rails that lift the lower edge, creating a small gap between the panel backsheet and the roof surface. This air gap prevents water accumulation and debris buildup, which can reduce module efficiency and accelerate corrosion of mounting hardware. Additionally, the airflow beneath the modules enhances natural cooling, improving electrical performance by reducing cell temperature.
5. Project Timeline and Milestones
October 24, 2019: Site mobilization and structural roof survey completed. Delivery of PV modules, inverters, mounting rails, and electrical components to campus.
October 25–30, 2019: Installation of mounting rails, panel mounting, wiring, and inverter setup. All electrical work carried out in compliance with Chinese National Standard GB/T 19964 for PV systems.
November 1–2, 2019: Final inspection, commissioning tests, and client walkthrough. System handed over to campus facilities team.
November 7, 2019: Successful grid‐connection and first kilowatt‐hours exported to the local utility.
Throughout construction, our installation crew maintained a spotless safety record and adhered to strict lockout/tagout procedures when working at height. Daily progress reports and photo documentation were provided to the client, ensuring full transparency.
6. Performance Expectations and Monitoring
Based on local solar irradiance data (average 4.2 kWh/m²/day) and system derating factors, the 13.6 kW array is projected to generate approximately 17,000 kWh of electricity annually. This output will offset roughly 12 tons of CO₂ emissions per year—equivalent to planting over 500 trees. The integrated monitoring system provides realtime data on energy production, module string performance, and inverter status. Automated alerts notify our operations team of any underperformance or fault conditions, enabling rapid response and minimizing downtime.
7. Educational and Environmental Impact
Beyond its role as an energy asset, the rooftop PV installation at Jiageng College doubles as an educational resource. Adjacent to the inverter cabinet, we installed an interactive display panel that explains basic PV principles, system components, and environmental benefits. Students and faculty can view live generation data on a touchscreen kiosk inside the building, fostering handson learning in renewable energy engineering courses. The project thus aligns with the university’s strategic goal to integrate sustainability into its curriculum and campus operations.
8. Challenges and Solutions
Roof Access and Safety: The building’s glasswalled façade limited conventional scaffolding placement. We employed temporary aluminum work platforms and safety harness anchor points to secure installers without obstructing the glass.
Water Drainage Concerns: Initial roof surveys indicated potential pooling on the shallow pitch. Our raised panel design mitigated this risk, ensuring water flows freely beneath the modules and off the roof.
Tight Schedule: With less than two weeks for construction, logistics coordination was critical. We preassembled module strings and mounting subframes offsite, allowing swift onroof installation.
9. Client Feedback and Future Opportunities
Campus facilities managers have reported high satisfaction with the system’s performance and aesthetics. The lowprofile panels blend seamlessly with the white roof, while the elevated installation remains discreet from ground level. Encouraged by this success, Jiageng College is evaluating additional rooftop and carport PV installations across its campus, aiming for a combined capacity of 200 kW by 2022.
10. Conclusion
The 13.6 kW rooftop solar PV system at Xiamen University’s Jiageng College exemplifies our holistic approach to renewable energy projects: rigorous site analysis, innovative mounting solutions, efficient project execution, and integration of educational value. Completed in just two weeks and gridconnected by November 7, 2019, the system now delivers clean, costeffective power, reduces campus carbon footprint, and serves as a living laboratory for students. We look forward to partnering with educational institutions nationwide to replicate and scale such sustainable energy solutions.
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