Optimal Tilt and Orientation Angles in Fixed Flat Surfaces to Maximize the Capture of Solar Insolation: A Case Study in Ecuador

Abstract

Due to the increasing attention of PV generation, and to the uncertainty of the real PV electrical power output, power system are facing planning challenges. Hence, this case report proposes a computer application that determines the optimal tilt and orientation angles of flat surfaces to maximize solar insolation capture based on existing mathematical models. The study uses data from different meteorological variables measured and estimated through a typical year from the most populated Ecuador cities. The computer application considers the global, diffuse, direct, reflected radiation, and the angle of incidence of the sun. This analysis reveals the angle of inclination and orientation where the highest percentage of insolation is obtained in Ecuador’s main cities. The results suggest that, in Ecuador, flat solar capture surfaces can be oriented between 20° and 60° concerning north, and with tilt angles between 12° and 19°. This contrasts with the literature, which recommends an orientation to the equator and an inclination equal to the location’s latitude.

Assessing the Feasibility of Hydrogen and Electric Buses for Urban Public Transportation using Rooftop Integrated Photovoltaic Energy in Cuenca Ecuador

“…Theoretical considerations suggest that in the southern hemisphere, irradiation is maximized when the PV modules are oriented towards the north, with a slight inclination of the collector surface ranging between 3% and 4% for various orientations, and up to a 10% slope [23]. In concordance with the sun's high altitude at this latitude throughout the entire year and the direct sunlight incidence affected mainly by cloudiness, the best orientation for PV higher performance corresponds to PV facing to the east, nonetheless, the expected losses as a consequence of PV orientation are quite low with a 7% maximum reduction expected when comparing the best orientation with the worst one [23,24,26]. Then, all roof surfaces are capable of incorporating PV with minimal shadowing affection.…”

“…The geographical data collected by Urgilés et al [22] is used to delimit the research area, for which the INEC (National Institute of Statistics and Census) divides the City of Cuenca into 80 census zones. Figure 3 shows Cuenca City's location in Ecuador and South America and, additionally, exposes the solar irradiation availability in Cuenca city [23,24]. The expected power PV output is between 1400 and 1500 kWh by kWp PV installed per year.…”

Análisis bibliométrico de las tecnologías de energía solar

“…Este incremento, coincide con la creciente atención de producción de energía eléctrica fotovoltaica y la capacidad de almacenamiento de energía solar instalada (Serrano-Guerrero et al, 2021), lo que demuestra que la energía solar es un tema de avance continuo entre los desarrolladores e investigadores de tecnología. Los principales países que están publicando documentos sobre este tema se destacan en la Figura 4.…”

Seismic and Tsunami Risk Analysis for Installing Resilient Power Systems Based on Isolated Microgrids on Buildings: The Case of Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

“…In contrast, areas in the southern hemisphere use a northerly orientation [26]. In Ecuador, the sun's rays hit practically perpendicularly, so solar panels and their accessories must be placed at an inclination angle between 7 and 19 degrees to guarantee self-cleaning and cooling and avoid accumulating water, dust, or ashes [27].…”