1. What is Solar Panel Calculation?

Solar panel calculation helps determine the appropriate system size needed to meet your energy requirements based on annual energy consumption, available sunlight hours, and system efficiency.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the solar panel equation:

Where:

• \( \text{annual kWh} \) — Annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours
• \( \text{hours of sun} \) — Annual hours of sunlight available
• \( \text{efficiency} \) — System efficiency as a decimal (e.g., 0.85 for 85%)

Explanation: The equation calculates the required solar panel system size in kilowatts based on your energy needs and local solar conditions.

3. Importance of System Size Calculation

Details: Accurate system sizing is crucial for optimizing solar energy production, ensuring adequate power supply, and maximizing return on investment in solar installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter annual energy consumption in kWh, annual hours of sunlight available, and system efficiency as a decimal. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical efficiency value for solar systems?
A: Typical solar system efficiency ranges from 0.75 to 0.85 (75% to 85%) depending on panel quality, inverter efficiency, and system losses.

Q2: How many hours of sun does the UK typically get?
A: The UK typically receives between 1,000-1,200 hours of sunshine per year, varying by region and season.

Q3: What factors affect solar panel efficiency?
A: Factors include panel orientation, tilt angle, shading, temperature, panel quality, and inverter efficiency.

Q4: Should I consider battery storage in my calculation?
A: Battery storage calculations are separate and depend on your energy usage patterns and backup requirements.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation for real-world applications?
A: This provides a good estimate, but professional assessment considering local conditions, panel degradation, and specific equipment is recommended for precise sizing.