In a groundbreaking study published in the ‘ABUAD Journal of Engineering Research and Development,’ researchers have illuminated the critical relationship between roof inclination and solar energy output. Conducted by Muyideen Olalekan Lawal from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Osun State University, the research offers valuable insights that could reshape solar energy strategies in regions with varying roof designs, particularly in South-Western Nigeria.
The study meticulously examined four photovoltaic (PV)-based solar power systems equipped with adjustable inclination angle stands. By altering the solar panel angles to 0°, 25°, 50°, and 75° over a span of 20 days, Lawal and his team recorded the daily energy output. The results were telling: panels set at a 25° angle delivered an average of 35.35 Wh, while those at 75° produced only 13.95 Wh. This stark contrast underscores a significant point: “The steeper the roof intended for panel installation, the more solar panels are required to meet specific energy needs,” Lawal explained.
This research holds profound implications for the energy sector, particularly as the demand for renewable energy solutions continues to surge. With increasing urbanization and the need for sustainable energy sources, understanding how roof design affects solar energy capture is crucial for architects, builders, and energy planners. Lawal’s findings suggest that optimizing roof inclination could lead to more efficient solar installations, ultimately reducing costs and enhancing energy independence for homeowners and businesses alike.
Moreover, the study provides empirical expressions to estimate daily average sun hours (ASH) based on roof inclination, which could serve as a vital tool for energy assessments in similar climates. For instance, the estimated ASH for Osogbo is 4.22 hours for a 25° roof inclination, dropping to 1.82 hours at 75°. This data can guide future solar energy projects, ensuring that installations are tailored to maximize output based on local conditions.
As the global energy landscape evolves, innovative research like Lawal’s will be instrumental in driving the adoption of solar technology. By harnessing the sun’s power more effectively, communities can move closer to achieving energy sustainability, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impacts.
For more information on this research, you can visit the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Osun State University.
