Modelling of Optimal Tilt Angle for Solar Collectors Across Eight Indian Cities

Abstract

Solar-thermal applications require an illustrative knowledge of the solar radiation available in a particular location or region to enable efficient design and effectual utilization of solar energy. Due to the availability of meteorological stations only at few prominent places, the solar data estimated for other places depends largely on the latitude-based models proposed by various researchers, played a vital role in estimating the solar radiation data. In addition to this, the knowledge on proper orientation of the solar collector is a necessary parameter in the effective utilization of solar radiation to receive optimum radiation. In the present work, the optimum tilt angle for eight different cities across India is computed. The solar radiation received at various angles of tilt ranging from 1-90° is simulated and a yearly optimum tilt angle is determined for all the cities. From these results, a mathematical correlation to estimate the optimum tilt angle for any Indian city based on its latitude is proposed. The outcomes of this study will play a vital role in estimation and effective utilization of the freely available solar energy towards sustainable development of our nation.