How close to ridge

The size of the panels is the distance from the roof peak to the flat roof.
When mounted on the rails the addition to the angle to the flat roof will or should give a bit more space.
I have read all over the net, installers have said as well as pictures showing spacing at the sides and the eves with panel right up to the apex.
We have plenty of room at the sides.

Thank you for any advice Chadd

I’d take them as high as I could get them without exceeding the peak. If you get a lot of snow, then I wouldn’t want them down low. Looks like a beautiful location you’re in to enjoy retirement. Be safe up there on that roof. It’s a long ways down.

Thank you for the advice, that is what we will do.
The lower balcony railings are now full of panels.
The roof is ideal as it faced south as well.

The flat roof section is large and once up there working on the roof is fairly simple.
Getting the panels up there is going to be a tussle though : )
Alanna and I replaced the flat roof with EPDM and replaced the slates 5 years ago.
It is a lovely place we have been here since 1986, heavy snow only twice. : )
God Bless Chadd

On a small shed, or on a larger building where firefighters may need to access the building roof one day? If the former, up to the peak is fine. If the latter, as I recall you must leave a minimum of three feet of open space (no panels) below the ridge.

My neighbor's installations range from edge to peak to space from side, edges, and peak. Majority have walking space between every two rows of panels. But being outside city limits means fewer rules to follow.

I plan to start below the ridge line so the peak protects panel edge from strong winds. Allow space to go back and check panels, wiring, or connections.