What is the key objective of conducting a PV system site assessment?

The key objective of conducting a PV system site assessment is to evaluate potential shading and optimize energy production. This assessment involves analyzing factors such as the geographical location, orientation of the solar panels, and any potential obstructions that could cast shadows on the system. By identifying and mitigating shading, one can enhance the overall efficiency and energy yield of the photovoltaic system.

An effective site assessment helps ensure that the installed solar panels receive maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day, thereby optimizing their performance. Ensuring minimal shading directly correlates to improved energy production, which is essential for the economic viability and effectiveness of the solar installation.

The other options focus on aspects that, while important, are not the primary focus of the site assessment. Collecting installation costs is more related to budgeting and funding, selecting inverters pertains to equipment compatibility and functionality rather than immediate site conditions, and determining battery storage locations relates to energy management rather than maximizing solar input. Therefore, these aspects support the overall project but do not center on the site assessment's key objectives of energy production optimization through shading evaluation.