Abstract
As a result of global warming people are paying more attention to the use of natural energy, such as solar power. As one of the main forms of solar energy, photovoltaic (PV) power generators have been developed rapidly in the past few years. Proper installation, especially the tilt angle, directly affects the system's output. Determination of the optimal tilt angle of a solar cell module depends on the solar radiation characteristics, season, and reflectivity in the local area.
This paper evaluates the performance of four small PV modules at different tilt angles, and analyzes the relationship of solar radiation power output with tilt angle by using actual measurement data at Kitakyushu city. A calculation method for optimal tilt angle is then presented using horizontal and diffuse radiation. The method has been verified through comparison with the experimental data. In addition, the sensitivity of optimal tilt angle to radiation rate, reflection rate, solar declination and latitude have been studied through parameter analysis.
