The electricity output of your solar installation is the first thing you need to know when looking for solar. Obviously, the bigger the system, the greatest energy generation. However, the power rating of your solar system, expressed in kW, measures the size of your system not how much it will produce.
The more sunlight the panels receive, the more the panels generate electricity: a 1kW solar system in Darwin produces more than 1kW of panels in Melbourne. The Clean Energy Council put together the following table showing the average energy output for solar cells around Australia:
The above figures are given as a guideline only. In fact, your electricity production depends on all the different factors that could affect the amount of sun your solar array is exposed to. That’s why factors like the orientation of your panels, the shading, the number of hours of sunlight or the cleanliness of your panels, can affect your electricity production.
- The panels’ orientation
To maximize the energy production, your panels should face north. Depending on your location and roof, studies show that you can lose somewhere between 10 and 20% efficiency by not having your system facing North. However, if your roof faces east or west, you will still produce a large amount of energy especially in the morning and late afternoon.
- The panels’ angle
Panels generate a maximum energy when positioned perpendicular to the sun. The ideal angle would be equivalent to the latitude of your location. For example, in Melbourne, the best panel angle is 37.8. Once again, this optimum angle differs depending on the seasons and your own electricity needs. In reality, your panels will more than likely be positioned at the angle of your rooftop.
- Partial shadow
If your roof is shaded even partially by a neighbour’s house, a tree or a hill for instance, it will have a significant impact on the production. That’s why it is essential to make an inventory of potential shading that can affect your roof and monitor every now and then. Read more about getting solar ready here.
- Panels cleanliness
Keeping your panels clean is an important aspect of energy generation. Dust accumulated on the surface of the panels can significantly affect the electricity production, blocking the sun from the panels. Most of the time, the rain is sufficient to keep your array clean, but they may need an extra professional clean every now and then. Find more maintenance tips here.
Do you want to know what system size would fit your needs? Contact our team of professionals to find the right system for your home or business call 1300 782 217 or send your electricity bills to ea@energis.com.au
