How to Use the Calculator
- Enter the Power Output of your solar panel in watts (this is typically specified in the panel's specifications).
- Enter the Panel Area in square meters (you can calculate this by multiplying the length and width of the panel).
- Click the Calculate button to see the efficiency percentage.
- Use the Reset button to clear all inputs and start over.
Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency
Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how effectively a solar panel converts sunlight into electricity. It's expressed as a percentage and represents the proportion of sunlight that is converted into usable electrical energy.
The formula used in this calculator is:
Efficiency (%) = (Power Output / Panel Area) × 100
What Affects Solar Panel Efficiency
- Sunlight intensity: More direct sunlight means higher efficiency
- Temperature: Most panels work best at moderate temperatures
- Panel age: Efficiency typically decreases over time
- Panel quality: Higher quality materials generally mean higher efficiency
- Angle and orientation: Positioning affects the amount of sunlight received
Efficiency Classes
- Excellent (≥ 20%): Commercial-grade panels, typically used in large solar farms
- Good (15-19%): Good for residential installations
- Average (10-14%): Common in many home solar systems
- Low (≤ 9%): Older or budget panels, may be less cost-effective