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Solar Panel Reference

Free reference guide: Solar Panel Reference

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About Solar Panel Reference

The Solar Panel Reference is a comprehensive, searchable guide to photovoltaic technology covering cell types (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film, perovskite), I-V curve characteristics (Voc, Isc, Pmax, Fill Factor, temperature coefficients), and system design principles. Whether you are sizing an inverter, calculating string configurations, or estimating annual energy yield, this reference provides the formulas and typical values you need.

Designed for solar engineers, EPC contractors, and renewable energy students, this reference organizes critical PV data into six categories: Cell Types, I-V Characteristics, System Design, Module Specs, Installation, and Economics. Each entry includes real-world values such as STC-rated parameters, NOCT corrections, and regional irradiance data for cities worldwide.

From N-type TOPCon and HJT cell structures to LCOE calculations and payback period analysis, every topic is presented with concrete numbers and worked examples. The tool runs entirely in your browser with no server processing, making it ideal for quick lookups during site assessments, proposal writing, or classroom study.

Key Features

  • Complete cell type comparison: Mono-Si (20-24%), Poly-Si (17-20%), CdTe, CIGS, perovskite, and N-type vs P-type wafers
  • I-V characteristic formulas for Voc, Isc, Pmax/MPP, Fill Factor, and temperature coefficients with worked examples
  • Inverter sizing rules including DC/AC ratio, MPPT voltage range calculation, and string/micro/central inverter selection
  • String design calculations with temperature-corrected Voc and Vmp for minimum and maximum module counts
  • Global solar irradiance data (kWh/m2/year) for major cities and Peak Sun Hours reference
  • Module datasheet interpretation guide covering STC ratings, temperature coefficients, and mechanical specifications
  • Installation guidelines for optimal tilt angle by latitude, row spacing formulas, and grounding/protection requirements
  • Economic analysis tools including energy yield estimation (E = P x PSH x PR x 365), LCOE formula, and payback period calculation

Frequently Asked Questions

What solar cell types does this reference cover?

The reference covers monocrystalline silicon (Mono-Si, 20-24% efficiency), polycrystalline silicon (Poly-Si, 17-20%), thin-film technologies (CdTe, CIGS, a-Si, perovskite), and the N-type vs P-type comparison including TOPCon, HJT, and IBC cell architectures.

How do I calculate the number of modules per string?

Use temperature-corrected voltages: Ns_max = Vdc_max / Voc(Tmin) and Ns_min = Vmppt_min / Vmp(Tmax). The reference provides the full formula including temperature coefficient corrections for extreme operating temperatures.

What is a typical DC/AC ratio for inverter sizing?

A typical DC/AC ratio ranges from 1.1 to 1.3. The optimal value depends on local climate, panel orientation, and tilt angle. The reference details the four key checks: max DC voltage, MPPT range, max DC current, and max DC power.

How do I estimate annual energy yield for a PV system?

Use E = P x PSH x PR x 365, where P is system capacity in kWp, PSH is daily Peak Sun Hours, and PR is the Performance Ratio (typically 0.75-0.85). For Seoul, this yields approximately 1,000-1,100 kWh/kWp/year.

What is LCOE and how is it calculated?

LCOE (Levelized Cost of Energy) equals the present value of total costs divided by the present value of total energy produced. Current utility-scale solar LCOE ranges from $0.03-0.06/kWh globally, making it competitive with fossil fuels.

How does temperature affect solar panel output?

Power output decreases by approximately 0.35-0.45%/degC above STC (25degC). The reference includes the NOCT-based cell temperature formula: Tcell = Tamb + (NOCT - 20) x G/800, with a worked example showing a 16.5% power loss at 66.3degC cell temperature.

What system losses should I account for in PV design?

Total system losses typically range from 15-25%, including temperature (5-15%), wiring (1-3%), inverter (2-5%), module mismatch (1-3%), soiling (2-7%), shading (0-10%), and annual degradation (0.5-0.7%/year). A good system achieves a Performance Ratio of 75-85%.

What are the latest solar module technology trends?

Key trends include large-area wafers (M10/G12), N-type TOPCon as the mainstream technology, HJT for hot climates, multi-busbar and shingled designs, bifacial modules with 5-25% rear-side gain, and perovskite/Si tandem cells targeting 33%+ efficiency with commercialization expected around 2026-2028.