Solar energy is rapidly becoming one of the most popular and accessible forms of renewable energy, and it has gained a lot of attention in Ireland in recent years. However, many people are still unsure about how much electricity solar panels can generate in Ireland, which is a critical factor in determining the cost-effectiveness of solar energy.
In this article, we'll explore the factors that affect PV panel electricity generation in Ireland and provide an overview of the electricity output you can expect from your photovoltaic panels.
How Much Electricity Do Solar Panels Generate in Ireland?
The amount of electricity solar panels can generate in Ireland depends on several factors, including the size and efficiency of the PV panel system and the weather and climate conditions. Generally, a home solar PV system sized at 20 sq. m (~3kW) and well-located would generate around 2,600kWh of electricity annually. This is over 40% of an Irish home's average annual electricity demand.
Factors That Affect Solar Panel Output
The amount of electricity PV panels can generate in Ireland depends on the following factors:
The size and efficiency of the PV panel system
A larger system with higher-efficiency panels will generate more electricity than a smaller system with less efficient panels.
The weather and climate conditions
The amount of sunlight reaching the panels will vary depending on your area's weather and climate conditions. Ireland has a moderate climate with relatively low levels of sunshine compared to other parts of the world, so it's important to choose high-quality panels designed to perform well in low-light conditions.
The orientation and tilt of the panels
The angle and direction that the panel's face can have a significant impact on their output. Panels facing south with a tilt angle of around 30 degrees are generally considered the most efficient for generating electricity in Ireland.
How Much Electricity Do Solar Panels Generate per Square Metre?
According to industry experts, one square metre of silicon solar panels will generate approximately 150 watts of power on a clear sunny day. While this may not seem like a lot, it's enough to power a laptop computer, which is a great example of the amount of energy that can be generated from even a small amount of PV panels.
How Much Electricity Do Solar Panels Generate in a Day?
In Ireland, solar PV systems can still function on overcast days, although not at their maximum rated capacity. The amount of electricity generated by solar panels on any given day depends on several factors, including:
- The size and efficiency of the PV panel system
- The amount of sunlight available
- The weather conditions
However, on average, a solar PV system in Ireland can generate approximately 4 kWh of electricity per day. This is enough to power the basic energy needs of an Irish household.
How Much Electricity Do Solar Panels Generate in Winter?
Winter is typically the time of the year when solar PV systems generate the least amount of electricity in Ireland. However, this does not mean that solar PV panels are ineffective during this time. On a clear, sunny day in winter, a solar PV system can still generate a significant amount of electricity, albeit less than during the summer months.
How to Maximize Solar Panel Output in Ireland?
If you want to maximise the amount of electricity your PV panel system can generate in Ireland, you can do a few things. These include:
Keeping your panels free from snow and ice
Snow and ice can reduce the amount of sunlight reaching your PV panels, so it's important to keep them clear during the winter.
Choosing high-quality panels
As mentioned, choosing the panels designed to perform well in low-light conditions is important. At NuSolas Energy, we only use high-quality panels that perform well in all weather conditions.
Installing a battery storage system
A battery storage system can store excess electricity generated by your solar PV system during the summer months for use during the winter months when the amount of sunlight is lower.
Why Choose NuSolas Energy?
Investing in PV panels is a significant decision, and working with a reliable and experienced company like NuSolas Energy is essential. Here are some reasons why you should choose NuSolas Energy for your photovoltaic panel needs:
Expert Consultation
Our team of experts will provide you with professional consultation and advice, starting from choosing the right PV panel system to suit your energy needs and budget.
Tailored Solutions
At NuSolas Energy, we offer customised solar panel solutions that cater to each client's needs.
Quality Products
We use only high-quality and reliable panels and components in our installations, ensuring that your solar PV system will last many years and generate maximum electricity.
Professional Installation
Our experienced technicians will install your PV panel system quickly and efficiently, ensuring it works correctly before leaving your premises.
Ongoing Maintenance and Support
We offer ongoing maintenance and support for our solar PV installations, ensuring that your system continues to work correctly for years to come.
Make the Switch to Solar with NuSolas Energy!
Understanding how much electricity solar panels can generate is essential if you're considering switching to solar energy. By choosing the right service, you can ensure that your solar PV system is designed, installed, and maintained to perform at its best, maximising its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
At NuSolas Energy, we provide high-quality services to our clients in Ireland, helping them reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their energy bills. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you switch to solar.
