1. What is a Solar Panel Energy Generation Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the daily energy output of solar panels based on their power rating, sunlight hours, and performance ratio.

Purpose: It helps homeowners, solar installers, and energy planners estimate solar panel productivity for system sizing and ROI calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy generated (kWh)
• \( P \) — Panel power rating (kW)
• \( H \) — Average daily sunlight hours
• \( PR \) — Performance ratio (0-1)

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

3. Importance of Energy Calculation

Details: Accurate energy estimation ensures proper system sizing, financial planning, and meeting energy needs with solar power.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter panel power in kW, average daily sunlight hours (typically 3-6), and performance ratio (default 0.75). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is performance ratio?
A: It accounts for system losses from temperature, wiring, inverters, etc. (0.75 means 25% losses).

Q2: How do I find sunlight hours for my location?
A: Use solar maps or databases like NREL's PVWatts for location-specific data.

Q3: Should I use panel nameplate rating or actual power?
A: Use nameplate (STC) rating unless you have specific performance data.

Q4: Is this daily or annual production?
A: This calculates daily production. Multiply by 365 for annual estimate.

Q5: Does this account for weather variations?
A: No, use average sunlight hours that already account for weather patterns.