Solar Energy Calculator UK

Solar Energy Equation:

\[ E = A \times I \times \eta \times t \]

Panel Area (A):

m²

Solar Irradiance (I):

kW/m²

Efficiency (η):

Time (t):

hours

Solar Energy (E):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is the Solar Energy Equation?

The solar energy equation calculates the total energy produced by solar panels based on panel area, solar irradiance, efficiency, and time. It provides an estimate of energy generation for solar installations in the UK.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the solar energy equation:

\[ E = A \times I \times \eta \times t \]

Where:

\( E \) — Solar energy (kWh)
\( A \) — Panel area (m²)
\( I \) — Solar irradiance (kW/m²)
\( \eta \) — Efficiency (%)
\( t \) — Time (hours)

Explanation: The equation calculates total energy output by multiplying panel area by solar irradiance, efficiency percentage, and time duration.

3. Importance of Solar Energy Calculation

Details: Accurate solar energy estimation is crucial for planning solar installations, calculating return on investment, and optimizing energy production for residential and commercial properties in the UK.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter panel area in square meters, solar irradiance in kW/m², efficiency as a percentage, and time in hours. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical solar irradiance in the UK?
A: Solar irradiance in the UK averages 0.8-1.1 kW/m² depending on location and season, with higher values in southern regions.

Q2: What are typical efficiency values for solar panels?
A: Modern solar panels typically have efficiencies between 15-22%, with premium panels reaching up to 24% efficiency.

Q3: How does season affect solar energy production?
A: Solar energy production varies significantly by season, with summer months producing 3-4 times more energy than winter months in the UK.

Q4: Should I consider panel orientation and tilt?
A: Yes, optimal orientation (south-facing) and tilt angle (30-40 degrees) can increase energy production by 20-30% compared to suboptimal installations.

Q5: Are there government incentives for solar in the UK?
A: Various incentives exist including Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and potential VAT reductions, though schemes change frequently so current programs should be checked.