Calculating Optimal Azimuth For Solar Panels In The Tropics

The compass angle shows 180 for south 90 for east and 270 for west.

Calculating optimal azimuth for solar panels in the tropics. Optimum angle differs during winter months. Positive 90 degrees is facing due west negative 90 degrees is facing due east. The vertical tilt of your panels. Elevation angle and azimuth angle commonly shortened to angle and azimuth for brevity.

Also the time zones are not explained and one would think could be automatically. Azimuth is the array s east west orientation in degrees. Let s start with two key terms. Another issue for installers and modelers is whether 1 axis vertical tracked pv panels panels that face south or north and swivel vertically.

Today we re going to explain how to mount your solar panels to get the most energy from them. In most of the solar pv energy calculator tools an azimuth value of zero is facing the equator in both northern and southern hemispheres. For example if you are seeking to maximise solar generation during winter months be it for an off grid system or higher energy consumption levels you would ideally want to angle your panels at a greater tilt for maximum exposure to the low winter sun. The ideal angle for your solar panels can vary depending on your solar objectives.

Welcome to another entry in our ongoing solar 101 series. Which should be noon if you are using a 24 hour time the sun angle is shown as negative and i have to go to around 10 pm 2200 hours to get the highest elevation angle. Purpose of use calculating soffit overhang to maximize passive solar house design bug report the time portion is confusing as when i enter 12.