How much power does a 10kw solar system produce per day
Ā
Well, it depends on a whole lot of factors….. What do you want to know firstly
-
How much power should a 10 kW produce per day?
-
Why is a 10 kW system usually sold on the Internet?
-
Why can’t you give a accurate figure?
-
Why are they selling the size? What is the reason?
-
What is overclocking or oversizing?
-
What is the expected output?
-
How much will this save me, money and how?
Simplistically as an Average
In summer 10 KW x 5 = 50Kwhr Average.Ā and In winter 10 x 2.5=25 KWhrs\ Average
So 50 KwHr in summer and 25KwHr in winter
Is this accurate? Yes, and no it depends on the day the month in the year.And it’s for the 3 to 5 months of winter, and 3 to 5 months of summer.
If you have a drought with no clouds you’re gonna get maximum output and make it 7.5 kWh per kilowatt. But if it’s a particularly rainy month, you might be lucky to get 10 or 15 kWHr a day. But simplistically the averages seem to work fine. If you want more detail, we have calculators on our website.Ā
And this Graph is what you get from the sales pitch from companies be very skeptical some years you’ll get 70 Kwhr day other years under 50Kwhr day.
Understanding Solar Output Variations
Solar energy is a renewable and sustainable source of power. However, the output of solar panels can vary due to several factors. This blog post will delve into why solar output changes due to the angle of the panels, shading, weather conditions, and the quality of the panels.
1. Angle of the Panels
The angle at which sunlight hits the solar panels significantly affects their efficiency. When the sunās rays are perpendicular to the panel, the energy absorption is maximized. However, as the angle deviates from this optimal position, the efficiency decreases. Therefore, itās crucial to install solar panels at an angle that maximizes exposure to direct sunlight throughout the day.
2. Shading
Shading is another factor that can reduce solar output. Shadows cast on the panels from nearby structures, trees, or even dust and debris can block sunlight, reducing the amount of light that reaches the solar cells. Even partial shading can significantly decrease the power output, as most panels are wired in series, and the performance of the entire panel can be affected by a shaded section.
3. Weather Conditions
Weather plays a significant role in solar output. While solar panels can still produce electricity on cloudy days, their output is considerably less than on clear, sunny days. Rain can also affect output as it can lead to the accumulation of dirt on the panel surface, reducing its efficiency. On the other hand, cooler temperatures can enhance solar panel output, as high temperatures can reduce the efficiency of solar cells.
4. Quality of the Panels
The quality of the solar panels themselves is a critical factor in their output. High-quality panels are more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity and are more durable, maintaining their performance over a longer period. Lower quality panels may have a lower initial cost, but their output and longevity may be compromised.
Understanding what exactly is a 10 Kw system
10 is the Panels, but not the inverter?
The 10 kW is the combined output of all the panels 10,000 watts is the amount of potential solar power on the roof this is made up of adding up the individual panels together so if there are 22 x 440watt panels = 9680watts.
But usually it is a 8 kW inverter. Therefore, the maximum output, the system to make is 8 kW which is fine due to it will only make 10kw’s output on may be 20 days just at 12 Noon and if you looked at a graph, you’d have a flat clipped top at high noon.
Why are they selling the size? What is the reason?
Well, it is got nothing to do with what you need is simplistically, a historical figure or number 10Kw so many other factors to be like considered size of roof, how much power you need, what time of year you need it? What are you doing in the future? What else is draining power and can be saved etc?
so ring us at Solarwind Technology.Ā
The reason they put more solar panels on a 10 kW system on a 8 Kw inverterĀ is called overclocking
Overclocking and Oversizing Solar Systems
Ā
- Overclocking refers to installing solar panels with a total capacity greater than that of the inverter. In other words, the panels are āoversizedā relative to the inverter.
- While it may sound counterintuitive, this practice can be beneficial. Hereās why:
- Energy Maximization: Oversizing allows you to generate more energy. Even if the inverter canāt handle the full panel capacity, the extra panels contribute without significant losses.
- Grid Limitations: Some grid operators restrict inverter sizes. Oversizing helps you work around these limitations.
- Financial Incentives: You can still receive incentives (e.g., Small-scale Technology Certificates) by overclocking up to 133% of the inverter capacity, the cost of the whole system is less.
- If it is a battery system, we can install the maximum amount of PV that the inverter can take sometimes, depending on the inverter 250%
Inverter Efficiency and Maximum Use
Inverter Efficiency and Optimal Sizing
- The inverter converts solar panel DC electricity into AC electricity for use in homes and businesses.
- Inverters operate optimally within a specific voltage range. As panel input varies, the inverterās efficiency changes therefore, more panels make the inverter work more efficiently.
- Optimal Sizing: Size your system can only be done by a study of your summer and winter load usage.
Ā Winter Weather and Cloud Movements
Solar Panels in Winter
- Contrary to myth, solar panels work during winter in Australia.
- Advantages:
- Cooler temperatures enhance panel efficiency.
- Clearer skies in some regions lead to increased sunlight exposure.
- Challenges:
- Shorter daylight hours reduce energy production (20-30% decrease compared to summer).
Solar Panel Degradation Over Time
Understanding Degradation
- Solar panels gradually degrade due to exposure to natural elements.
- Microcracks develop in silicon cells, leading to electrical connection failures.
- Degradation Rate: Modern panels degrade at about 0.5% per year (after 20 years, they produce roughly 90% of their initial electricity)
Solar systems are dynamic, influenced by various factors. By understanding these concepts, we can harness solar energy effectively and sustainably. Remember to maintain and monitor your system for optimal performance!
Certainly! Letās delve into the financial benefits of solar power, considering the feed-in tariff and how it impacts your savings.
How much will this save me, money and how?
Understanding the Solar Feed-In Tariff
The Solar Feed-In Tariff (FiT) is the credit you receive for any excess solar energy generated by your system and exported to the grid. Hereās how it works:
- Energy Generation: Your solar panels produce electricity during daylight hours.
- Self-Consumption: First, this energy powers your home appliances directly, reducing your reliance on grid electricity.
- Excess Energy: Any surplus energy not used in your home is sent back to the grid.
- Credit: You receive a credit on your electricity bill for this exported energy.
How Much Will You Save?
The savings depend on your billing style and the FiT rate. Letās break it down:
- Time-of-Use Billing:
- If you have time-of-use billing (common in Ausgrid), consider the average of your peak and shoulder rates.
- Solar power doesnāt work during off-peak hours (10 pm to 7 am).
- On average, solar can save you around 30 cents per kWh plus GST.
- Flat Rate Billing:
- If you pay a flat rate for power, solar will save you money for every kWh used in your home.
- Typically, the rate in Sydney is around 22 to 25 cents per kWh plus GST.
- Feed-In Tariff:
- If your generated solar power isnāt used in your home, itās automatically fed back to the grid.
- The typical feed-in tariff in NSW is around 8 cents per kWh, but some deals offer higher rates (e.g., 10 cents per kWh).
Example Calculation:
Letās assume you have a 10kW solar system:
- It generates approximately 40 kWh per day.
- You typically export about 20 kWh of solar energy daily.
Based on this, youād expect to receive a credit of around $1.40 per day from your energy retailer, resulting in an annual saving of $5111.
Remember, these figures vary based on your location, energy plan, and system size. Always check with your retailer for precise rates.
Maximizing Savings
- Self-Consumption: Use solar energy during the day to minimize grid reliance.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: Opt for energy-efficient devices to maximize your solar usage.
- Battery Storage: Consider adding battery storage to store excess energy for nighttime use.