1. What is a Solar Power Generation Calculator?

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

Purpose: It helps homeowners and solar professionals estimate potential energy production for solar installations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy generation (kWh)
• \( P \) — Panel power (kW)
• \( H \) — Daily sunlight hours (hours)
• \( PR \) — Performance ratio (decimal between 0-1)

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

3. Importance of Solar Power Calculation

Details: Accurate energy production estimates help determine system sizing, return on investment, and energy savings potential.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter panel power in kW, average daily sunlight hours (default 5.0), and performance ratio (default 0.75). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical performance ratio?
A: Most residential systems have PR between 0.70-0.80. Commercial systems may be 0.75-0.85.

Q2: How do I find my daily sunlight hours?
A: Use solar irradiance maps for your location or consult local solar installation data.

Q3: Should I use peak or nominal panel power?
A: Use the panel's rated power under standard test conditions (STC), typically found in the specifications.

Q4: Does this account for seasonal variations?
A: No, this calculates daily production. For annual estimates, multiply by 365 using average sunlight hours.

Q5: What factors affect performance ratio?
A: Temperature, dirt, wiring losses, inverter efficiency, and shading all impact the PR.