1. What is a Solar Panel Energy Production Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the annual energy output of a solar panel system based on its size and local sun exposure.

Purpose: It helps homeowners, businesses, and solar installers predict energy generation for planning and ROI calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Annual energy production (kWh/year)
• \( S \) — System size (kW)
• \( H \) — Peak sun hours per day (h/day)

Explanation: The system size is multiplied by daily peak sun hours, then scaled up to a full year.

3. Importance of Energy Production Estimation

Details: Accurate production estimates are crucial for system sizing, financial analysis, and understanding environmental benefits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the system size in kW and your local average peak sun hours (default 4.5 h/day). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are peak sun hours?
A: The equivalent number of hours per day when solar irradiance averages 1,000 W/m². This accounts for variations in sunlight throughout the day.

Q2: How do I find my peak sun hours?
A: Check solar maps for your location or consult local solar installers. Typical values range from 3-6 h/day.

Q3: Does this account for system losses?
A: No, this is a theoretical maximum. Real-world systems typically produce 75-90% of this value due to various inefficiencies.

Q4: What's a typical residential system size?
A: Most homes install 5-10 kW systems, depending on energy needs and roof space.

Q5: How does this relate to my electricity bill?
A: Compare the kWh/year result with your annual electricity consumption to estimate how much of your usage the system will cover.