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Power Formula:
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The power formula calculates the electrical power output from solar panels based on the panel area, solar irradiance, and panel efficiency. It provides a fundamental estimation of energy generation capability for solar installations.
The calculator uses the power formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the theoretical maximum power output by multiplying the panel area by the solar radiation intensity and the panel's conversion efficiency.
Details: Accurate power calculation is crucial for sizing solar installations, estimating energy production, determining system costs, and evaluating return on investment for solar projects.
Tips: Enter area in square meters, irradiance in watts per square meter, and efficiency as a decimal between 0 and 1. All values must be valid (area > 0, irradiance > 0, 0 ≤ efficiency ≤ 1).
Q1: What is typical solar panel efficiency?
A: Most commercial solar panels have efficiencies between 15-22%, though laboratory cells can reach over 40% efficiency.
Q2: What is standard irradiance value?
A: Standard test conditions use 1000 W/m², but actual irradiance varies by location, weather, and time of day.
Q3: Does this calculate actual or theoretical power?
A: This calculates theoretical maximum power. Actual output may be lower due to temperature effects, shading, dust, and system losses.
Q4: How does panel orientation affect power?
A: Orientation affects the effective irradiance. South-facing (northern hemisphere) at optimal tilt angle maximizes annual energy production.
Q5: Can this formula be used for battery sizing?
A: While it estimates power generation, battery sizing requires additional factors including energy consumption patterns, autonomy days, and depth of discharge.