1. What is a Solar Power System Calculator?

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

Purpose: It helps homeowners, businesses, and solar installers determine potential energy production from solar panels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy output (kWh)
• \( P \) — Panel power rating (kW)
• \( H \) — Daily sunlight hours
• \( PR \) — Performance ratio (0-1, system efficiency)

Explanation: The panel power is multiplied by sunlight hours and adjusted for system efficiency to estimate daily energy production.

3. Importance of Solar Energy Calculation

Details: Accurate energy output 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 a typical performance ratio?
A: Most systems have PR between 0.7-0.8. Newer systems might reach 0.85, while older systems may be lower.

Q2: How do I find my daily sunlight hours?
A: Check solar insolation maps for your location or use historical weather data.

Q3: Should I use peak or average panel power?
A: Use the rated kWp (kilowatt-peak) value from your panel specifications.

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

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