1. What is a Solar Panel Watt Hour Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the energy production (in watt hours) from solar panels based on their wattage and available sunlight hours.

Purpose: It helps solar energy users and installers determine daily energy production for system sizing and performance estimation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Wh \) — Energy produced (watt hours)
• \( W \) — Solar panel wattage (watts)
• \( h \) — Peak sun hours (hours)

Explanation: The panel's wattage is multiplied by the number of peak sunlight hours to estimate daily energy production.

3. Importance of Watt Hour Calculation

Details: Accurate energy production estimates ensure proper system sizing, battery storage capacity, and meeting energy needs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the solar panel wattage and average peak sun hours for your location (default 4.5 hours). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are peak sun hours?
A: Peak sun hours represent the equivalent number of hours per day when solar irradiance averages 1,000 watts per square meter.

Q2: How do I find sun hours for my location?
A: Check solar maps or databases like NREL's PVWatts calculator for your area's average.

Q3: Does this account for system losses?
A: No, this is theoretical maximum. Real-world systems typically produce 70-90% of this value due to various losses.

Q4: Can I calculate monthly production?
A: Yes, multiply daily Wh by the number of days in the month, using appropriate sun hours for that month.

Q5: What's a typical residential solar panel wattage?
A: Most residential panels range from 250W to 400W, with 300-350W being common for newer installations.