Structural Performance of An Existing Building Roof Subjected to Additional PV Panel Load

Turkish energy policy is at its crossroads, and the country's national energy strategy is aimed at reducing fuel import volume. Working towards this goal, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels offer clean, sustainable, and renewable solutions, using the most abundant energy resource available throughout the world. In this regard, the roof-top mounted PV panels over existing buildings can significantly contribute to clean energy production. However, the direct PV panel installation may not be technically possible, as the additional PV panels load may exceed the allowable load carrying capacity of the existing roof. This study evaluates an existing building roof's structural performance for carrying the additional loads imposed by PV panels. An existing conventional building's structural roof performance is examined as a case study under loads of different types of PV panels and layouts to fulfill this purpose.