Where Is the Best Place to Set Up a Solar Farm?
Solar panels work in many locations and circumstances, but like all specialized equipment, they work better or worse under different circumstances. So what is the ideal place to set up a solar farm? At Renewables Worldwide, our goal is to make renewable energy accessible to as many people as possible, but we also want it to be effective. When we set up a new community solar farm, we take the criteria for the ideal positioning and meet as many as we can.
So where is the ideal place to set up a solar farm? Let’s find out what locations make solar panels most efficient.
Direction and Tilt Angle
In the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels should ideally face south to receive maximum sunlight throughout the day. This helps capture sunlight when the sun is at its highest point. The tilt angle of a solar panel is also important. The tilt angle of the solar panels should be adjusted based on the latitude of the location. Typically, the angle is set to be equal to the latitude, but adjustments can be made to optimize energy capture during specific seasons.
Shade, Obstructions, and Cleanliness
Although solar panels can work in overcast conditions, it’s best to keep them away from obstructions that will cast shadows on their surface. Obstructions such as trees and tall buildings will cast shadows and block sunlight, decreasing energy production. Trees and nearby foliage can also drop debris onto the panels, which is another reason to place them in an open area. Cleaning solar panels regularly also helps them absorb as much sunlight as possible.
Temperature
While they can function in all environments, solar panels generally perform better in cooler temperatures. They still produce electricity in hot climates, but excessive heat can decrease efficiency. Placing solar panels at higher altitudes reduces the temperature as well as keeping them clear from obstruction. Proper ventilation and spacing can also help manage temperature.
Renewables Worldwide | Join a Community Solar Farm
Our mission at Renewables Worldwide is to make solar energy accessible to everyone through community solar farms. Whenever we establish a new solar farm, we carefully select the best location to give our customers the maximum output from their solar panels.
