Solar panel rails should have 12 to 16 inches of space between the first support and the end of the rail. However, it's essential to consult the manufacturer's specifications and local building codes to determine the appropriate spacing for your specific installation. I am confused by this, because the way that the solar panels are clamped on to the. . Residential Installations: For residential solar panel systems, pv rails are typically spaced 3 to 4 feet apart, depending on the panel size and mounting system. Key parameters include maximum span lengths (typically 4–6 feet for residential installations), torque values for rail connections (20–25 ft-lbs), and lateral spacing tolerances (±1/8″).