The output energy of a photovoltaic (PV) solar system depends on several factors:
- Solar Irradiance: The amount of sunlight falling on the solar panels.
- Panel Efficiency: How effectively the solar panels convert sunlight into electricity.
- System Size: The total area and number of solar panels in the system.
- Location: The geographical location affects the amount of sunlight received.
- Orientation and Tilt: The angle and direction at which the panels are installed relative to the sun’s path.
To calculate the output energy (in kilowatt-hours, kWh) of a PV solar system over a period of time, you typically multiply the total power output (kW) of the system by the number of hours the sun shines per day and the number of days in the period.
For example, if your PV system has a capacity of 5 kW, and on average, it operates at full capacity for 5 hours a day, you would calculate the daily energy output as:
[ \text{Daily Energy Output (kWh)} = \text{System Capacity (kW)} \times \text{Average Sun Hours per Day} ]
To get the energy output over a month or a year, you would multiply this daily output by the number of days in that period.
Actual outputs may vary due to weather conditions, shading, and system maintenance, so these calculations provide estimates rather than precise values.