Potential energy output from horizontally inclined rooftop solar power systems in relation to electricity consumption. A case study of Sørhellinga.
Abstract
This thesis investigates the potential energy output of rooftop solar power systems in relation to electricity consumption. The aim was to quantify the impact a horizontally inclined rooftop solar power system could have on covering the electricity consumption of a building. For a future with increased electricity demand it is important to study the potential energy output of different power generating technologies.
The chosen site was Sørhellinga and the potential energy output was calculated using solar equations in an excel spreadsheet. Two scenarios of solar power systems were outlined, an average quality system and a high-quality system. In the third scenario the area required to fully cover the energy consumption of the building was investigated.
The study found that the two proposed solar power systems had an energy output of 117 679.49 kWh/year and 140 888.58 kWh/year for an average and high-quality system, respectively. Sørhellinga’s estimated annual electricity consumption was 1 479 000 kWh. The solar power systems were shown to cover 7.96% and 9.53% of the electricity consumption. The area required for energy output to equal electricity consumption was found to be 12.2 and 9.9 times as large as the suitable roof area. Rooftop solar power systems are a good supplement to a building’s electricity consumption but would need to work in conjunction with other power generating technologies to satisfy future electricity demands.