Keys to Maximizing the Performance of Your Solar Panels
Keys to Maximizing the Performance of Your Solar Panels
The use of solar energy at home has become an efficient and sustainable solution to reduce electricity bills and contribute to the environment. However, its performance depends on several factors that are important to understand in order to make the most of your photovoltaic installation.
Key Factors in Solar Energy Production
- Panel Nominal Power
The power generation capacity of a solar panel is measured in watts (W) and ranges between 275W and 400W. However, actual performance is affected by environmental and installation factors. - Installation Conditions
- Orientation: In the northern hemisphere, panels should be oriented south to maximize solar capture.
- Tilt Angle: In Spain, the ideal angle varies between 20º and 40º depending on latitude.
- Shading: Obstacles like trees or buildings can reduce energy production.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: The accumulation of dirt on the panels decreases efficiency.
- Peak Sun Hours (PSH)
PSH represents the hours when solar radiation is equivalent to 1,000 W/m². In Spain, they range between 3 and 6 PSH per day, depending on the region.
Production Variation Throughout the Year
- January - March: Low production due to short days and lower solar radiation.
- April - June: Increased generation with the arrival of spring.
- July - August: Maximum production thanks to long days and higher radiation.
- September - December: Progressive decrease as sunlight hours are reduced.
How to Optimize Solar Production?
To maximize the efficiency of a photovoltaic installation, it is essential to:
- Ensure proper location and orientation
- Adjust the tilt angle according to latitude
- Avoid shading and obstructions
- Perform regular maintenance and cleaning of the panels
Self-Consumption and Virtual Batteries
In the absence of sunlight, panels stop generating energy, although they can still function on cloudy days with lower efficiency. To optimize self-consumption, the use of home batteries or balance storage systems, such as Frank Energy's Solar Wallet, is recommended. With this solution, surplus energy is not lost but converted into an accumulated balance to reduce electricity bills to as low as €0.
Conclusion
The production of solar energy at home depends on factors such as panel power, orientation, tilt angle, and peak sun hours. Optimizing these aspects allows for maximum performance and profitability of the photovoltaic installation.
But what happens to the energy you don’t consume? At Frank Energy, we help you make the most of it with our Solar Wallet (virtual battery), which converts your surplus into an accumulated balance. This balance is used to reduce your electricity bills month by month—even down to €0!
Additionally, with our indexed contract, you pay for electricity at the real market price, with no hidden margins or extra costs. By combining both solutions, your savings will be even greater!
