Fixed arrays oriented east, west, north and flat, polycrystalline silicon (BP)
Orienting a solar array due north in the southern hemisphere will maximise its exposure to the sun through the day, on most days of the year. When north installation is not possible, arrays might be installed facing the east or west. "Flat" installations are usually avoided, because their surface is more susceptible to dust buildup and soiling.
This solar compass will quantify the impact of installing an array facing east, west or flat, as opposed to the ideal north facing position. Identical 2.0kW polycrystalline BP arrays have been installed on a purpose-built frame.
Arrays oriented east or west will receive the same amount of sunlight through the year. In terms of the power they produce, however, there are different benefits associated with either direction.
East-facing arrays receive light in the morning, when temperatures are cooler and the solar panels are operating more efficiently. West-facing arrays receive their light in the afternoon, when the high temperatures are associated with the day’s peak air-conditioning demand.
The solar compass will contribute meaningful comparative data to the assessment of these relative benefits.
BP Solar has supplied solar solutions in the Australian market for over 30 years.
| Electricity produced (annual) - North: | 3.2 MWh* |
|---|---|
| Electricity produced (annual) - East: | 2.9 MWh |
| Electricity produced (annual) - West: | 2.9 MWh |
| Electricity produced (annual) - Flat: | 3.0 MWh |
| System size: | 4 x 2.0 kW |
| Array area: | 4 x 15.1m² |
| Number of panels: | 4 x 12 |
| Panel efficiency: | 13.1% |
| Panel type: | BP 3165 |
| Panel rated output: | 165 W |
| Inverter size, type: | 4 x 2500W, SMA Sunny Boy 2500 |
| Array orientation: | 25º tilt |
*This figure is based on an assumption of 1.622 MWh annually, per kWp of installed solar panels. This may prove to be a conservative estimate for Alice Springs.