Tilt angle optimization of photovoltaic panels

Abstract

The solar PV power sector in Spain has been developing at a spectacular rate in recent years. The energy cost and the dependence on fossil fuels can be reduced by improving the efficiency of photovoltaic energy production. The performance of a solar radiation conversion system is affected by a tilt angle with the horizontal plane. Thus, the photovoltaic array needs to be tilted at the correct angle to maximize the performance of the system. In this paper, we found the optimum tilt angle and applied for Barcelona, Spain, located at latitude 41o 22' 56'' North and longitude 2o 6'56'' East. The optimal tilt angle for Winter (December, January, February) is 56.46 and the optimum tilt angle for Spring (March, April, May Ls 2 .11¿and the optimum tilt angle for Summer(Jun, July, August Ls 13.76¿ and the optimum tilt angle for Autumn (September, 2ctober, November Ls 8.1 ¿. finally, the annual optimum tilt angle for our latitude Ls 36.87¿, ZLth thLs optimal slope angle, maximum monthly and annual solar radiation is calculated. In this way, we can increase the energy generation when achieved to maximum solar radiation. With this process, we were able to increase 10.54% of energy.