In the last chapter, we introduced the most optimal angles for solar panels (chapter 1). We used Northern America as an example and suggested pointing your solar panels South to consume maximum sunlight for your off-grid solar lighting system. Aside from adjusting the angle of the solar panel, what else will affect your solar panel’s energy intake?
We list two factors: Location and Weather
Every renewable technology needs an energy source. Any solar powered system needs lots of sunlight! The sun is sitting roughly 93 million miles away from your solar lighting system. If you wish to bring off-grid solar lighting systems to areas with high foot traffic like pedestrian walkways, parks, campuses, or recreational courts, you should choose your off-grid solar light solution carefully. Other elements such as high tree canopies, patio roofs, or the shadows of condos can affect your solar energy absorption.
Have you ever wondered why we have seasons? Well, in a nutshell, it’s because the Earth is tilted by 23.5° which means the planet will be closer to the sun at different times of the year (closest is Summer, furthest is Winter).
The sun’s energy drives our blue planet’s water systems. Different bodies of water keep a steady atmospheric circulation through different seasons. During the Summer you get the most energy and in the Winter, you get the least, so you can imagine how important it is to consider an off-grid solar lighting system that can easily adapt to different locations and weather. We can adjust the lights we place on earth, but you can’t move something that’s 93 million miles away.
Soltech’s Cegonia off-grid solar series is well-crafted with an elegant design only for you.