Solar Energy Calculator By Location

Solar Energy Formula:

\[ kWh = System\ Size\ (kW) \times Insolation\ (kWh/m²/day) \times Efficiency \times Days \]

System Size:

Insolation:

kWh/m²/day

Efficiency:

decimal

Days:

days

Solar Energy Output:

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1. What Is Solar Energy Calculation?

Solar energy calculation estimates the electrical energy output of a photovoltaic system based on system size, solar insolation at the location, system efficiency, and time period. This helps in planning and optimizing solar power installations.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the solar energy formula:

\[ kWh = System\ Size\ (kW) \times Insolation\ (kWh/m²/day) \times Efficiency \times Days \]

Where:

\( System\ Size \) — Photovoltaic system capacity in kilowatts (kW)
\( Insolation \) — Solar radiation received at location in kWh/m²/day
\( Efficiency \) — System efficiency factor (decimal between 0-1)
\( Days \) — Number of days for energy calculation

Explanation: The formula calculates total energy production by multiplying system capacity by available solar resource, system performance factor, and time duration.

3. Importance Of Solar Energy Estimation

Details: Accurate solar energy estimation is crucial for system sizing, return on investment calculations, energy production forecasting, and determining the feasibility of solar projects.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter system size in kW, insolation value for your location, system efficiency as decimal (e.g., 0.85 for 85% efficiency), and number of days. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical solar panel efficiency?
A: Most commercial solar panels have efficiencies between 15-22%, while complete system efficiency is typically 75-85% due to various losses.

Q2: How do I find insolation data for my location?
A: Insolation data is available from solar maps, meteorological databases, or solar design software. Typical values range from 3-7 kWh/m²/day depending on location.

Q3: Does this calculator account for seasonal variations?
A: No, this provides a simplified calculation. For accurate results, use monthly insolation data and calculate separately for each period.

Q4: What factors affect system efficiency?
A: Efficiency is affected by temperature, shading, dirt, wiring losses, inverter efficiency, and panel degradation over time.

Q5: Can I use this for battery storage sizing?
A: This calculates energy production. For battery sizing, you would need additional information about consumption patterns and autonomy requirements.