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Solar Energy Formula:
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Solar energy calculation estimates the daily energy output of a solar panel system based on the number of panels, their wattage, and daily sunlight hours. This helps homeowners understand their potential energy production and savings.
The calculator uses the solar energy formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates daily energy production in kilowatt-hours (kWh) by multiplying panel count by individual wattage and daily sunlight hours, then dividing by 1000 to convert to kWh.
Details: Accurate solar energy estimation is crucial for sizing solar systems, calculating potential savings, determining return on investment, and planning energy usage for residential properties.
Tips: Enter the number of solar panels, the wattage per panel, and average daily sunlight hours. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is a typical wattage for residential solar panels?
A: Most residential solar panels range from 250-400 watts, with 300-350 watts being common for modern installations.
Q2: How many sunlight hours should I use for calculation?
A: This varies by location and season. Check local solar insolation maps or use an average of 4-6 peak sun hours for most regions.
Q3: Does this calculation account for system losses?
A: No, this is a theoretical maximum. Real-world systems typically have 10-20% losses due to inefficiencies, shading, and temperature.
Q4: How does panel orientation affect energy production?
A: South-facing panels (in northern hemisphere) at optimal tilt angle typically produce the most energy. East/west facing panels produce about 15-20% less.
Q5: Can I use this for battery storage sizing?
A: This calculation gives daily production which is useful for battery sizing, but you'll also need to consider your daily energy consumption patterns.