Off-Grid Solar Calculator
May 3, 2009 Africa, Power, Resource, Solar
Part of my job over the past couple of years has entailed doing energy sizing for off-grid photo voltaic (PV) solar systems. To help with this I have relied largely on an excel-based solar calculator that I created. I thought it might be useful to share.
- Solar Toolkit – excel based solar calculator. Last updated 05.03.09. Please see instructions for proper usage.
- Solar Radiation Chart – useful for estimating peak solar of your location (# hours of day of strong sunlight)
- Solar Radiation Chart 2 – includes optimal PV inclination angles for facing the sun
Please note: this is NOT intended to replace getting a detailed power estimate from a local solar expert who can best take in account the local conditions. This is more intended to help you with estimates when you are looking to bring a project off-grid. Please use at your own risk.
Solar Costing
A common question relating to PV systems is what does it cost? A technique commonly used is to estimate the cost at $10-per-watt. This includes the cost of the panels, batteries, charge controller and wiring – installed. A 100W system, for example, would cost you around $1,000. You can begin to see why we tend to get so nutty about power efficiency! =)
Note: In Africa we’ve found this price to vary widely from $10 to over $15 due to different policies on import taxation, transport costs and varying levels of local competition. Also, $10-per-watt is for the initial setup of a PV system only. To consider issues of sustainability, it is important to take in account that batteries will need to be replaced every 2-3 years and the charge controller ever five. If you wish to factor in replacement costs, to keep the system operational, $15-per-watt should be used.
![](/images/mobile_active08.jpg")
May 5th, 2009 at 4:05 pm
Matt,
Thanks for this calculator. We use one at Inveneo and its great to compare yours to ours (Bob should be doing that shortly). As well, we’re looking to publish ours too as a way to increase the solar power knowledge.
May 10th, 2009 at 7:46 am
[...] Bert writes about the “Off-grid solar calculator” in North [...]
January 13th, 2011 at 12:19 pm
Assim que a empresa astrobolis di sattis, lançou o Nuvenus Chovendus na appstore, criou-se uma enorme especulação em torno do assunto com diversos questionamentos. Espero com esse artigo esclarecer todas as dúvidas e quebrar todos os paradigmas existentes.
January 13th, 2011 at 5:59 pm
Prerokovanje iz kavnih usedlin ni super dobra nacin o vpogled prihodnosti. Accept the place the divine providence has found for you.You need courage.And the man who does it needs a day’s sustenance.
January 14th, 2011 at 2:26 pm
thanks for posting this, maybe more pictures next time
January 17th, 2011 at 5:23 pm
your site is really slow !
January 21st, 2011 at 8:44 pm
Creative post, I share the same views. I wonder why this particular the entire global population does not think
January 24th, 2011 at 11:53 am
Thanks for the great post. Wish to see more in the near future.
January 26th, 2011 at 12:28 pm
As a newcomer in this field I am constantly on the lookout for insightful content on the subject. Your blog has filled my need to a great extent.
February 2nd, 2011 at 4:07 pm
http://www.foreclosuretruth.com/blog/sean/loan-modification-denied-dont-worry-be-happy/
February 3rd, 2011 at 8:51 am
which beverage has more sugar and calories, beer, wine (red or white), whisky, scotch, brandy or gin?
February 7th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
[...] geographic location. You can get a sense of this enormous task by using Matt Berg’s Off-Grid Solar Calculator, though its best to have a trained professional do the [...]
February 8th, 2011 at 7:46 am
I think it’s going to turn out to be a lame recycling of the same theme that was used on the Thing on the secret wars planet– that Banner will think he has discovered something that can turn Hulk permanently safe for humanity, only to learn when he comes back that he could have done it at any time (the old Wizard of Oz dodge) but has lost the opportunity and now he will always be the hulk. Then, when he gets back, Betty will have fallen for someone else, like Doc Samson. Same old storyline.
February 11th, 2011 at 2:54 pm
I want to offer a world wide web support organization that will effectively. I need assistance with the best place to trade it.?The business enterprise is successful and has been around regarding 14 years. It is really an affiliate business and it is period will be able to proceed. Any tips concerning in which I could sell the organization? You can now buy this business through around america. Provides anybody distributed a business online on the internet (less craigs list). I’d like a honest website to sell to be able to.
February 11th, 2011 at 3:08 pm
How can retailers on Auction web sites promote world wide web game titles for only $10 for the requirements for you to 4 video games?That’s only $5 Per a game title and they list regarding $19.99. By way of example an individual can be marketing Restaurant Rush A single and a couple of, Cold Lunchtime Dash, as well as Meal Mania regarding $10 and so they state they’ll electronic mail the signal as well as the destination to download the overall game. My spouse and i checked out the vendor’s feedback and it ended up being respectable (95%). A number of the responses explained the people got the particular games quickly. I am just dropped on how they could do this sometimes lawfully or perhaps dishonestly.
February 15th, 2011 at 1:28 am
Facinating article, it really makes someone think. I always like to read interesting posts about stuff like this. Keep the great posts coming. Thanks again for sharing it with us.
February 15th, 2011 at 7:35 am
Utilisé pour traiter les hommes de partout dans le monde qui souffrent de dysfonction érectile (impuissance sexuelle) et il est également utilisé pour traiter l’hypertension artérielle pulmonaire chez les hommes et les femmes.
February 16th, 2011 at 6:41 am
Let’s say the Burlington mortgage broker humiliated with regards to your wages and you were not mindful?It is us again. I did not be aware that my own Burlington mortgage broker humiliated about my own revenue until eventually he or she said after the fact. Sure he accepted that if you ask me.He really put on the extender to inform us just how hard they worked that i can obtain the loan. The main request ended up being filled in inside my home with one of the acquaintances i did not lie. I’ve asked for replicates of my personal record and applkication from your ex and he vulnerable me personally having an law firm. From one point he wanted to get me personally using this wreck and also held responsible GMAC for putting me personally inside the completely wrong bank loan.…
February 18th, 2011 at 8:22 am
I think every men whose having difficultywith their manhood should read this great post. Will spread your post to my website readers too. Thank you
February 19th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
Is there a very best soups to charm a lady?There is an older girl in which lives next to us, she actually is concerning 80 roughly, and she or he really likes soups. (We are causeing this to be presumption since most aged females like soups.) Anyhow, I do think jane is your bees legs as well as wish to have my personal way with her. Perhaps there is the soup that you would advice that might get her fruit juices going?
February 23rd, 2011 at 5:11 am
Wow, amazing you made that in Excel, that is a powerful program.
March 3rd, 2011 at 1:48 pm
At Honeycomb shades – Yes, Use soberly.Only sick music makes money today.But what together we can do for the freedom of man.
March 15th, 2011 at 11:33 am
It’s so helpful to me, and this topic is very good. Keep on going, I will keep an eye on it, my friend.
March 27th, 2011 at 9:38 pm
Good blog! Are you using WordPress as your fundamental running a blog platform? I am asking this query because your weblog seems to be a little different.
March 29th, 2011 at 5:15 pm
That is the right weblog for anyone who needs to find out about this topic. You notice a lot its nearly exhausting to argue with you (not that I truly would need…HaHa). You undoubtedly put a new spin on a topic thats been written about for years. Great stuff, simply nice!
March 29th, 2011 at 5:35 pm
Nice post. Site took a while to load, but it was worth the wait.
March 31st, 2011 at 9:35 pm
Really good weblog, keep me personally from checking it, I will be seriously interested to know more about it.
April 5th, 2011 at 7:47 am
Just the information I was looking for, I’ll definately be back.
tr.
April 7th, 2011 at 7:35 am
Get latest and user friendly product from this site, this is one of the best site from online shopping such as Mobile, Laptop, Camera etc.
April 8th, 2011 at 6:46 pm
Amazing summary, saved your blog in hopes to see more!
April 10th, 2011 at 3:25 am
Your post is inspiration that i can find out more about this article. I must acknowledge your clarity broadened my sentiments and I will instantly take your rss feed to stay updated on every upcoming content you might publish. You deserve gives thanks for a job well done!
April 19th, 2011 at 4:13 am
Well this could likely be considered a very good article, instead beneficial an I be conscious that it is in real truth instead crucial particularly for people teenagers who’ve dermis problems.
April 20th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
Can I website link as much as this, through my url page? I’m about to gather as much causes of info as i am able.
April 26th, 2011 at 10:38 pm
I’m impressed, I need to say. Really hardly ever do I encounter a blog that’s both educative and entertaining, and let me tell you, you’ve gotten hit the nail on the head. Your thought is outstanding; the problem is one thing that not sufficient people are talking intelligently about. I am very comfortable that I stumbled across this in my search for something relating to this.
April 27th, 2011 at 4:15 pm
There are some attention-grabbing time limits in this article however I don’t know if I see all of them heart to heart. There’s some validity but I will take maintain opinion until I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we want extra! Added to FeedBurner as effectively
April 27th, 2011 at 5:43 pm
Hello People! Just wanted to tell you that I found tickets to the Rush concert on Jun 20. In this webpage you can find tickets for other dates too. It’s wonderful Rush and his band performance, this is my second time and I’m still so excited about listening him live! On this page you can see the section where you’re buying the ticket, so it’s very recommended! Rush 2 get ‘em!
April 29th, 2011 at 6:57 pm
Hello People! Just wanted to tell you that I bought tickets to the Britney Spears concert on Jul 01st. In this site you can find tickets for other dates too. It’s wonderful her performance on stage, she still looks so “fresh”, this is my fourth time and I’m still so excited about listening her live! On this page you can see the section where you’re buying the ticket, so it’s very recommended!
April 30th, 2011 at 3:19 am
I really like your writing style, fantastic info , regards for putting
May 5th, 2011 at 10:58 am
Hi very interesting news, I agree with this.
May 9th, 2011 at 8:28 pm
This information is precise and justify plenty of time it will eventually consume while reading it. I will recommend all searching this topic will need to have looking within this post. There are every one of the blueprint about the subject and covers most of the aspects linked to the subject.
May 12th, 2011 at 5:32 pm
I discovered your weblog site on google and test just a few of your early posts. Continue to keep up the very good operate. I just further up your RSS feed to my MSN Information Reader. In search of ahead to reading more from you in a while!…
May 14th, 2011 at 7:36 am
Dear Sir,
Would you kindly send me your update on your solar calculator.I would be very greatful if you enter my address in your email list to exchange solutions and ideas.
Regards
Usama
May 16th, 2011 at 9:23 am
DVD player: Get latest and frineldy DVD player from Greendust.com
May 23rd, 2011 at 9:56 pm
Hey Webmaster! If You Want To Get More Quality Targeted Visitors for your Website Check Commission Crusher
May 24th, 2011 at 3:34 pm
black and red heels
June 15th, 2011 at 7:29 pm
I like this web site so much, saved to bookmarks.
June 25th, 2011 at 9:18 am
As there are several methods available in the market regarding weight loss, and every method claims a potential weight loss program. But every one is different so which method is good for you? In order to know that all you have to do is surf our website.
June 25th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
Since the number of products on behalf of penis enlargement pills that really believed in the market PERMANENT. And its also a lot of feedback about most products. Does the method of satisfying my product?
for that please surf my website and judge.
June 30th, 2011 at 9:24 pm
I have recently started a blog, the information you provide on this web site has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.
July 4th, 2011 at 9:23 am
1 2 sleeve tattoo designs,
August 2nd, 2011 at 7:54 pm
It’s always great to be off the radar
August 15th, 2011 at 3:13 pm
An incredibly interesting input . Whenever i just read your blog i have found a original perspective . Furthermore , being a fresh developer, i should say that the dwelling of your site rocks . Is it possible you post garden greenhouses regarding the theme ? . I have found it hard to choose among these themes and widgets. Thanks .
August 19th, 2011 at 3:52 pm
BTW a link to this piece at Google search result AD visionary Themelis Cuiper’s list of recommended posts – you must be doing an excellent job as he provides a book mark to you.
August 20th, 2011 at 9:12 am
Have you ever thought about including a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is important and everything. But think of if you added some great images or videos to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with pics and video clips, this blog could certainly be one of the most beneficial in its niche. Amazing blog!
August 22nd, 2011 at 12:00 am
No wonder why Themelis Cuiper’s SocialGarden Biz one-on-ones : marketing & socialmedia marketing :> referred this weblog – you are doing a superb job as he is pointing towards you?
August 25th, 2011 at 1:02 am
I don’t mean to hijack this blog but I’d like to find a good lawyer in Las Vegas Nevada and I cant figure out how to find one. Do you have any info on this attorney? They are in Las Vegas Nevada close to my apartment. I cannot find reviews on them — Burdman & Coston, 8440 W Lake Mead Blvd # 100, Las Vegas NV 89128 – (702) 387-2400
August 26th, 2011 at 12:28 am
A clever comprehension and ideas I will be able to experience my blog site. You’ve undoubtedly used up considerable time in this particular. Panégyriques!
August 27th, 2011 at 6:40 pm
One more thing. I really believe that there are lots of travel insurance sites of respectable companies that allow you enter your journey details and have you the quotations. You can also purchase the actual international travel insurance policy on the internet by using your current credit card. All you should do will be to enter your travel particulars and you can view the plans side-by-side. You only need to find the system that suits your capacity to pay and needs and use your credit card to buy the item. Travel insurance on the web is a good way to search for a reliable company to get international travel cover. Thanks for sharing your ideas.
September 2nd, 2011 at 8:52 pm
Good PV systems, it’s really great!!
September 3rd, 2011 at 2:10 pm
How about you just feed them turkey for lunch? That’s what my school did.
October 12th, 2011 at 4:54 pm
solar laptop bags…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
October 26th, 2011 at 8:17 pm
If you are like me, you often find that you create duplicate files as you rename or … The following is an example of why you may require duplicate file software: …
October 30th, 2011 at 9:23 am
电动调压器厂…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
November 2nd, 2011 at 2:16 am
Nef conseil. Conseil en Webmarketing. Conseil en Marketing stratégique. Consultant Web Rennes. SEO Rennes. Redaction Web Rennes. Copywriting Rennes. Marketing Rennes. Communication Rennes. E-reputation Rennes…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
November 27th, 2011 at 7:36 pm
Lol, I just adore Taylor Swift! she is so talented!
November 30th, 2011 at 3:40 pm
efectos de dejar de fumar…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
December 8th, 2011 at 1:31 pm
Wonderful work! That is the kind of information that are supposed to be shared across the net. Shame on the seek engines for no longer positioning this publish upper! Come on over and visit my site . Thank you =)
December 15th, 2011 at 5:53 am
making solar panel…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
December 30th, 2011 at 10:58 pm
Howdy this is kind of of off topic but I was wondering if blogs use WYSIWYG editors or if you have to manually code with HTML. I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding experience so I wanted to get guidance from someone with experience. Any help would be enormously appreciated!
January 1st, 2012 at 7:43 pm
communiqué de presse gratuit…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
January 7th, 2012 at 4:25 am
I’m real impressed with your activity skills and also with the layout on your journal. Is this a cashed strain or did you construct it yourself? Either way maintain up the overnice attribute work, it’s extraordinary to see a zealous blog similar this one these life..
January 10th, 2012 at 1:22 pm
I’m not sure where you are exploit your substance, but advantage matter. I needs to pay whatsoever quantify acquisition some author or disposition much. Thanks for eager content I was search for this aggregation for my work.
January 13th, 2012 at 1:06 am
I’m not sure where you are effort your content, but angelical matter. I needs to pay whatever measure acquisition more solon or module solon. Thanks for outstanding content I was hunting for this collection for my assignment. Avalowerin
January 14th, 2012 at 12:33 am
Solar power is really the only way to go. We all need to do our part to spread the word. It’s just about getting the word out that solar and going green takes “just about the same effort”.
January 23rd, 2012 at 7:19 am
I view every men who having problem with their manhood should feature this info. Testament farm your accumulation to my website readers too. Convey you FLostat
February 8th, 2012 at 4:25 am
I’m not trusty where you are feat your substance, but angelical issue. I needs to expend whatever experience learning some statesman or statement writer. Thanks for eager info I was search for this information for my operation.
February 19th, 2012 at 9:19 am
Creative post, I share the same views. I wonder why this particular the entire global population does not think
March 9th, 2012 at 1:02 pm
Hello. This time I just want to ask about your article, why not make some real. thanks
March 19th, 2012 at 2:04 pm
It is the best time to make some plans for the future and it’s time to be happy. I have read this put up and if I may I want to recommend you some interesting issues or advice. Perhaps you could write subsequent articles regarding this article. I wish to read even more issues approximately it!
March 27th, 2012 at 12:47 pm
Unquestionably believe that which you stated. Your favorite justification seemed to be on the internet the simplest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I certainly get annoyed while people consider worries that they just don’t know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top and defined out the whole thing without having side effect , people could take a signal. Will likely be back to get more. Thanks
April 3rd, 2012 at 6:48 pm
It’s good idea for using solar energy.
April 3rd, 2012 at 11:07 pm
Not sure why, but this reminds me of the message that used to be on head gaskets for automobile engines. On the top side was printed This Side Up’. After many failed installations, it finally occurred to someone that, if you pulled the gasket from the package upside down, you would never see the This Side Up’ message. From then on, head gaskets were printed on the bottom side with Other Side Up’.
April 10th, 2012 at 12:21 am
It’s rare for me to find something on the net that’s as interesting and fascinating as what you have got here. Your page is lovely, your graphics are great, and what’s more, you use reference that are relevant to what you are saying. You are certainly one in a million, well done!
April 10th, 2012 at 3:54 am
here…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…
April 27th, 2012 at 4:28 am
Thanks so much for your post. I love this site. If you are ever looking to drive in more visitors to your website, come check us out.
May 1st, 2012 at 1:23 am
Hello, I think that I saw you visited my website so I came to return the favor.I am trying to find things to improve my site!I suppose its ok to use a few of your ideas!!
May 3rd, 2012 at 1:14 am
séries…
[...]BuildAfrica.org » Off-Grid Solar Calculator[...]…