Tilt Angle Optimization of Photovoltaic Panels

The solar PV power sector in Spain has been developing at a spectacular rate in recent years. The energy cost and the dependence on fossil fuels can be reduced by improving the efficiency of photovoltaic energy production The performance of a solar radiation conversion system is affected by tilt angle with the horizontal plane. Thus, a photovoltaic array needs to be tilted at the correct angle to maximize its performance. In this paper, we investigate how to determine the optimum tilt angle. This procedure is illustrated for the city of Barcelona (Spain) located at latitude 41o 22' 56 '' North and longitude 2o 6'56 '' East. The optimal tilt angle varies according the seasons: In Winter (December, January, February) is 56.4, in Spring (March, April, May) is 29.11 degrees in Summer (Jun, July, August) is 13.76 degrees and in Autumn (September, October, November) is 48.14 degrees. Finally, the annual optimum tilt angle for our latitude is 36.87 degrees, with this optimal slope angel, maximum monthly and annual solar radiation is calculated. So, by means of the proposed approach, the energy generation is increased in 10.54% thanks to we are able to benefit from the maximum solar radiation.