Solar Panel Power Generation Calculator

Power Generation Formula:

\[ P = A \times I \times \eta \]

Power Generation (W):

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1. What is a Solar Panel Power Generation Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the power output of solar panels based on their area, solar irradiance, and efficiency.

Purpose: It helps homeowners, engineers, and solar installers determine potential energy production from photovoltaic systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ P = A \times I \times \eta \]

Where:

\( P \) — Power output (Watts)
\( A \) — Panel area (square meters)
\( I \) — Solar irradiance (Watts per square meter)
\( \eta \) — Panel efficiency (dimensionless, 0-1)

Explanation: The panel area multiplied by solar irradiance gives theoretical maximum power, which is then scaled by the panel's efficiency.

3. Importance of Solar Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power estimation helps in system sizing, energy production forecasting, and return on investment calculations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter panel area in m², solar irradiance (default 1000 W/m² for full sun), and efficiency (default 0.18 for 18% efficient panels). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical solar panel efficiency?
A: Most commercial panels range from 15-22% efficiency (0.15-0.22). High-efficiency panels may reach 24%.

Q2: How do I find solar irradiance for my location?
A: Use solar maps or databases like NASA's POWER or NREL's PVWatts for location-specific data.

Q3: Does this account for real-world conditions?
A: No, this is theoretical maximum. Actual output is affected by temperature, shading, dirt, and system losses.

Q4: How do I calculate daily energy production?
A: Multiply power output by peak sun hours in your location (typically 3-6 hours/day).

Q5: What's the difference between kW and kWh?
A: kW is power (instantaneous), kWh is energy (power × time). This calculator gives kW (W/1000).