1. What is a Photovoltaic Solar Panel Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the power output of photovoltaic solar panels based on panel area, efficiency, solar irradiation, and performance ratio.

Purpose: It helps homeowners, engineers, and solar installers determine the potential power generation from solar panel systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power output (watts)
• \( A \) — Solar panel area (square meters)
• \( r \) — Solar panel efficiency (decimal, 0-1)
• \( H \) — Solar irradiation (watts per square meter)
• \( PR \) — Performance ratio (decimal, 0-1)

Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical power output by considering panel characteristics and environmental factors.

3. Importance of Solar Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power estimation helps in system sizing, cost analysis, and energy production forecasting for solar installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter panel area in m², efficiency as decimal (e.g., 0.18 for 18%), solar irradiation (default 1000 W/m² for full sun), and performance ratio (default 0.75). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical solar panel efficiency?
A: Most commercial panels range from 15-22% efficiency (0.15-0.22 decimal).

Q2: How do I find solar irradiation for my location?
A: Use solar maps or databases like NASA's or local meteorological data (average is about 1000 W/m² in full sun).

Q3: What affects the performance ratio?
A: Factors include temperature, shading, dirt, wiring losses, and inverter efficiency (typical range 0.7-0.8).

Q4: Can I calculate daily energy production?
A: Multiply the result by peak sun hours in your location (e.g., 5 hours × 500W = 2500Wh or 2.5kWh per day).

Q5: Does this account for panel orientation?
A: No, adjust the solar irradiation value based on your panel's tilt and azimuth for more accurate results.