Most Suitable Conditions For Using Solar Energy
Feb 20, 2024 7:00 am
Most Suitable Conditions For Using Solar Energy
Why is it that every time we see sprawling pictures of solar panels on roofs or solar projects, they are always basking in perfect sunny weather? That is because that is the most ideal, and arguably the only type of weather that solar is useful in.
Weather conditions
Solar works best when the sun is shining because it can harvest solar energy from the sun’s rays. As a result, the amount of energy collected is very low during cloudy, rainy and snowy weather, and is at 0 at night. During these conditions the sun’s rays are being blocked, causing the solar intake to be at 10-25% of what it would be in normal conditions. According to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, most areas in South Africa receive an average of 2 500 hours of sunshine per year. For comparison, Los Angeles receives about 3 254.2 hours, Tokyo receives about 1 881 hours and London receives about 1 427 hours. Considering that the whole of Africa receives sunshine all year round, weather conditions are certainly not an issue for solar in South Africa.
Position
In the southern hemisphere, the best direction for solar panels is north-facing and is south-facing in the northern hemisphere as this will give the panels maximum radiation from the sun. Solar panels need to be titled to collect optimum radiation from the sun and ideally should not be lying flat. The ideal angle for titling solar panels in South Africa is 25-35°. Although not a requirement, solar panels are best placed on the roof of a structure as it has the best possible chance of collecting radiation on par with angle of the sun’s rays. This position also helps cool roofs and save space.
Obstruction
Solar panels work best when there is no shade to obstruct them. Objects such as trees, other buildings, antennas, poles, chimneys and even other solar panels can bring shade, causing obstruction of direct sunlight. A small amount of shade on any panel can affect the output level of the entire system.
For more information on solar energy, or any other renewable energy related articles, view the other blog posts on my website and be sure to open my weekly emails every Tuesday at 9AM CAT. Please also share this newsletter with your friends and collogues working in the renewable energy sector.
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