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.

Elevation angle and azimuth angle commonly shortened to angle and azimuth for brevity. Energy modelers also need to know the optimal tilt angle of a panel for calculating regional or global pv output in a given lo cation or worldwide. 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. Also the time zones are not explained and one would think could be automatically.

On the contrary in the countries of the southern hemisphere such as south africa and australia the best orientation is true north. Optimum angle differs during winter months. Azimuth is the array s east west orientation in degrees. Let s start with two key terms.

Welcome to another entry in our ongoing solar 101 series. Since solar panels are more productive when the sun s rays are perpendicular to their surfaces the certainly best orientation is the one directly true south azimuth angle 180. 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. Today we re going to explain how to mount your solar panels to get the most energy from them.

Another issue for installers and modelers is whether 1 axis vertical tracked pv panels panels that face south or north and swivel vertically. The ideal angle for your solar panels can vary depending on your solar objectives. Positive 90 degrees is facing due west negative 90 degrees is facing due east.