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

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.

Optimum tilt and azimuth angles for fixed solar collectors in South Africa using measured data

“…Ng et al [12] presented similar contour plots based on mathematical models for Malaysia. Li and Lam [25] also presented contour plots for Hong Kong, but these were based on measured solar data. fixed collectors at all possible installation angles.…”

Estimativas da radiação global incidente em superfícies inclinadas com base na razão de insolação

“…Este comportamento de ganhos e perdas da radiação global incidente no inverno e verão, respectivamente, e o aumento dos desvios médios mensais com o incremento do ângulo de inclinação, podem ser considerados normais, visto que a disponibilidade de energia no topo da atmosfera para os planos inclinados também apresenta este padrão de sazonalidade e inversa ao verificado para planos horizontais (Rensheng et al, 2006;Li & Lam, 2007;Li et al, 2008;El-Sebaii et al, 2010;Li et al, 2011;Muzathik et al, 2011;Viana et al, 2011).…”

High-Efficiency Solar Electricity of Umbrella by TRIZ Analysis

“…The sky radiance model presents the incident solar radiation on an inclined surface [4] [13] [14]. The sum of direct-beam, sky-diffuse and ground reflection from the incident solar radiation transposes to an irradiance plane The sky-diffuse radiation can be calculated by the sum of n products of R i , ω i , and cosσ i , for each sky patch i.…”

“…The factors of electricity include tilt angle and orientations of angular losses in the field condition [2]- [4], seasonal variations [5] and environment [6]. This research is to develop a strategy that suits for tracking high-efficiency solar electricity of umbrella by TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) analysis.…”