How to Rate Solar Power

Anyone who has walked in sunlight on a summer day knows that sunlight carries energy. The energy of the sun can raise sweat on a brow, but a far more beneficial use is to convert that energy to electrical power. That's what solar photovoltaic (PV) panels do. There are many alternatives to choose from, and a few factors can help you decide among the alternatives.

Calculator

Instructions

- 1
  
  You first have to know your needs.
  
  Determine your energy needs.
- 2
  
  The amount of energy a solar power system produces depends on the area.
  
  Measure the area available for solar panels. For example, if you're contemplating a rooftop PV system, measure the unshaded roof area. Solar panels can be mounted flat on a roof, but they can also be mounted on angled frames, which will slightly increase the available area.
- 3
  Obtain the data sheets for different solar module options. The data sheet should include a value called the "peak power output at the normal operating cell temperature." The data sheet will also have information on the solar module area and weight.
- 4
  Divide the available area determined in Step 2 by the solar module area from the data sheet. Get rid of any decimal points and keep the whole number of the result. Multiply that whole number by the peak power number from the data sheet. That is the peak power available for the solar system.
- 5
  Compare the peak power calculated in Step 4 with the energy needs determined in Step 1. The peak power is the amount the system would generate during the time of day when the sun is highest.
- 6
  
  The heavier a panel, the more robust its mounting structure must be.
  
  Evaluate the structure and installation costs. As a general rule, the greater the number of panels and the heavier each individual panel, the higher the installation costs.
- 7
  
  The levelized cost of ownership depends on a ratio.
  
  Determine the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for the system. The LCOE is determined by the ratio of the energy produced by a system over its lifetime divided by the overall cost of the system over its lifetime. For example, if the system is intended to make a house self-sufficient, then the cost of energy storage must be included. If the excess energy during peak hours is to be sold to a parent utility, then the income reduces the overall cost.

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