Solar Electric Energy Calculator

Solar Energy Formula:

\[ E = A \times I \times \eta \]

Energy Production (kWh):

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1. What is a Solar Electric Energy Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the electrical energy production from solar panels based on panel area, solar irradiance, and system efficiency.

Purpose: It helps homeowners, engineers, and solar installers estimate potential energy generation from photovoltaic systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ E = A \times I \times \eta \]

Where:

\( E \) — Energy production (kWh)
\( A \) — Panel area (square meters)
\( I \) — Solar irradiance (kWh/m²)
\( \eta \) — System efficiency (decimal 0-1)

Explanation: The panel area is multiplied by available sunlight energy and the system's conversion efficiency to calculate electrical output.

3. Importance of Solar Energy Calculation

Details: Accurate energy estimation helps in system sizing, financial planning, and evaluating solar project viability.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter panel area in m², solar irradiance (default 1.0 kWh/m² for full sun), and system efficiency (default 0.15 for 15%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's typical solar panel efficiency?
A: Most commercial panels are 15-22% efficient (0.15-0.22). High-end panels may reach 23%.

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

Q3: Does this account for weather or seasons?
A: No, use average monthly irradiance values for more accurate annual estimates.

Q4: How do I calculate panel area?
A: Multiply panel length by width (in meters). For multiple panels, sum all areas.

Q5: What affects system efficiency?
A: Panel efficiency, inverter losses, temperature, wiring, shading, and dirt all impact overall system efficiency.