1. What is a Solar Energy System Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the daily energy output of a solar panel system based on panel power, sunlight hours, and performance ratio.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and solar installers estimate the potential energy production of solar panel systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy output (kWh)
• \( P \) — Panel power (kW)
• \( H \) — Daily sunlight hours (hours)
• \( PR \) — Performance ratio (decimal, typically 0.75)

Explanation: The panel power is multiplied by sunlight hours and performance ratio to account for system losses.

3. Importance of Solar Energy Calculation

Details: Accurate energy estimation helps in system sizing, cost analysis, and return on investment calculations for solar installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the panel power in kW, average daily sunlight hours, and performance ratio (default 0.75). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is performance ratio?
A: It's a factor (0-1) accounting for system losses from temperature, wiring, inverters, dirt, etc.

Q2: How do I find my panel power?
A: Check the manufacturer's specifications or sum the wattage of all panels (divide by 1000 for kW).

Q3: What's typical sunlight hours?
A: Varies by location (3-6 hours in most areas). Use solar maps or local weather data.

Q4: Can I calculate monthly output?
A: Yes, multiply daily output by 30 (or actual days) after calculation.

Q5: Does this include battery storage?
A: No, this calculates production only. Storage would require additional calculations.