Determining the Optimum Tilt Angle and Orientation for Solar Energy Collection Based on Measured Solar Radiance Data

Li, Danny H. W.; Lam, Tony N. T.

doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2007/85402

International Journal of Photoenergy

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Research Article | Open Access

Volume 2007 | Article ID 085402 | https://doi.org/10.1155/2007/85402

Determining the Optimum Tilt Angle and Orientation for Solar Energy Collection Based on Measured Solar Radiance Data

Danny H. W. Li¹and Tony N. T. Lam¹

Academic Editor: Roel Van De Krol

Received28 May 2007

Accepted20 Sept 2007

Published28 Nov 2007

Abstract

A prior requirement to the design of any solar-based conversion systems is the knowledge of optimum orientation and tilt surface at which peak solar energy can be collected. In many parts of the world, however, the solar radiation data for the surfaces of interest are not always available. This paper presents a numerical approach to calculate the solar radiation on sloped planes by integrating the measured sky radiance distributions. The annual total solar yield at different sloped surfaces facing various orientations and monthly solar radiations at the optimal tilt surface and three vertical planes facing east, south, and west were determined. The energy outputs and efficiencies were simulated using a computer package. The environmental benefits in terms of greenhouse gases reductions and cost implications were also considered. The findings provide technical information for engineers to design and evaluate photovoltaic (PV) systems which could contribute to the environmental, energy, and economic aspects.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2007 Danny H. W. Li and Tony N. T. Lam. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

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