The energy that reaches the Earth from the sun is referred to as solar energy and is used for electricity generation through photovoltaic systems.
Solar Calculator Settings:
Panel Orientation (Azimuth):
South = 0°
East = -90°
West = 90°
North = 180°
The azimuth should ideally be close to 0° (South).
Panel Tilt Angle (Tilt):
Values from 0° to 90° can be entered here.
Optimal tilt of a PV panel = approximately 45 degrees.
Global Tilted Irradiance (GTI)
For determining the performance of a PV system, "Global Tilted Irradiance" (GTI) is the most crucial value. GTI measures the total radiation falling on a tilted surface and includes both direct and diffuse solar radiation. Since PV systems are typically installed on inclined roofs, GTI reflects the actual solar radiation received. Therefore, GTI is a key parameter for assessing the performance and efficiency of a PV system.
The Global Tilted Irradiance (GTI) values, measured in W/m² (watts per square meter), can be examined daily or hourly. Here are the classifications for GTI values in W/m²:
Low: < 200 W/m²
Medium: 200 - 400 W/m²
High: 400 - 600 W/m²
Very High: > 600 W/m²
These categories provide a rough classification to evaluate solar radiation at a specific time or over a certain period.
Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI)
Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) measures the direct solar radiation that strikes a surface perpendicular to the sun. This measurement is important for PV systems as it indicates how much direct sunlight can be utilized by solar cells to generate electricity. DNI is crucial for accurately assessing the performance and yield of PV systems and is often used to compare and optimize the solar energy potential of different locations.
Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI)
GHI measures the total solar radiation (both direct and diffuse) that falls on a horizontal surface. While GHI is useful for understanding the general solar energy potential of a region, it does not account for the tilt of solar panels.
Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance (DHI)
DHI measures the diffuse radiation falling on a horizontal surface. This information is useful for completing the overall picture of solar radiation but is not sufficient on its own for determining the performance of a PV system.
Direct Solar Radiation
Direct Solar Radiation refers to sunlight that reaches the Earth's surface directly from the sun, without being scattered or reflected by clouds or other obstacles. This direct radiation is crucial for photovoltaic systems, as it is directly used to convert solar energy into electrical energy.
Terrestrial Solar Radiation
Terrestrial Solar Radiation is important for PV systems as it encompasses the total amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface. This radiation directly impacts the energy generation of PV modules and is therefore considered in the planning and assessment of photovoltaic systems.
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