Solar PV Analysis of Freeport, Bahamas
Situated in Freeport, Bahamas (latitude: 26.5355, longitude: -78.7028), this location is highly conducive for the generation of solar photovoltaic (PV) power due to its Northern Subtropical climate zone. The average energy production per kilowatt of installed solar capacity varies by season, with the highest output observed in Summer and Spring at 6.63 kWh/day and 6.82 kWh/day respectively, while Autumn and Winter yield lower averages of 4.88 kWh/day and 4.24 kWh/day respectively.
These variations are primarily driven by seasonal fluctuations in sunlight hours and temperatures, with longer daylight hours and higher temperatures during Summer contributing to increased energy generation.
The ideal tilt angle for fixed solar panel installations at this location has been determined as 24 degrees facing Southward to optimize exposure to the sun's path across the sky throughout the year.
While Freeport's climate offers considerable potential for year-round solar power generation, it is important to consider certain local environmental factors that could potentially hinder optimal performance. Primarily among these are storms or periods of heavy cloud cover which can significantly reduce sunlight exposure on panels.
However, such weather conditions do not persist consistently across all seasons so their overall impact on annual energy production should not be majorly detrimental.
To mitigate these potential challenges when installing a solar PV system in this region, it would be prudent to ensure robust structural design capable of withstanding stormy weather conditions without damage or significant efficiency loss. Additionally, incorporating effective drainage systems can prevent water accumulation which may otherwise obstruct sunlight penetration onto panels during rainfall events.
Note: The Northern Sub Tropics extend from 23.5° latitude North up to 35° latitude.
So far, we have conducted calculations to evaluate the solar photovoltaic (PV) potential in 5 locations across Bahamas. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Bahamas by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Freeport
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 26.5355, Longitude: -78.7028 (Freeport, Bahamas), based on our analysis of 8760 hourly intervals of solar and meteorological data (one whole year) retrieved for that set of coordinates/location from NASA POWER (The Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources) API:
Ideally tilt fixed solar panels 24° South in Freeport, Bahamas
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Freeport, Bahamas (Lat/Long 26.5355, -78.7028) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 24° South for fixed panel installations.
As the Earth revolves around the Sun each year, the maximum angle of elevation of the Sun varies by +/- 23.45 degrees from its equinox elevation angle for a particular latitude. Finding the exact optimal angle to maximise solar PV production throughout the year can be challenging, but with careful consideration of historical solar energy and meteorological data for a certain location, it can be done precisely.
We use our own calculation, which incorporates NASA solar and meteorological data for the exact Lat/Long coordinates, to determine the ideal tilt angle of a solar panel that will yield maximum annual solar output. We calculate the optimal angle for each day of the year, taking into account its contribution to the yearly total PV potential at that specific location.
Seasonally adjusted solar panel tilt angles for Freeport, Bahamas
If you can adjust the tilt angle of your solar PV panels, please refer to the seasonal tilt angles below for optimal solar energy production in Freeport, Bahamas. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 24° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11° South in Summer | 31° South in Autumn | 42° South in Winter | 20° South in Spring |
Our recommendations take into account more than just latitude and Earth's position in its elliptical orbit around the Sun. We also incorporate historical solar and meteorological data from NASA's Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources (POWER) API to assign a weight to each ideal angle for each day based on its historical contribution to overall solar PV potential during a specific season.
This approach allows us to provide much more accurate recommendations than relying solely on latitude, as it considers unique weather conditions in different locations sharing the same latitude worldwide.
Calculate solar panel row spacing in Freeport, Bahamas
We've added a feature to calculate minimum solar panel row spacing by location. Enter your panel size and orientation below to get the minimum spacing in Freeport, Bahamas.
Our calculation method
- Solar Position:
We determine the Sun's position on the Winter solstice using the location's latitude and solar declination. - Shadow Projection:
We calculate the shadow length cast by panels using trigonometry, considering panel tilt and the Sun's elevation angle. - Minimum Spacing:
We add the shadow length to the horizontal space occupied by tilted panels.
This approach ensures maximum space efficiency while avoiding shading during critical times, as the Winter solstice represents the worst-case scenario for shadow length.
Topography for solar PV around Freeport, Bahamas
The topography around Freeport, Bahamas is mostly flat. The terrain is generally low-lying and there are no significant hills or mountains in the area. Areas near Freeport that would be most suitable for large-scale solar PV installations include open fields, rooftops of commercial buildings, and areas with minimal shade from trees or other structures.
Citation Guide
Article Details for Citation
Author: Aaron Robinson
Publisher: profileSOLAR.com
First Published: Monday 18th of December 2023
Last Updated: Monday 21st of July 2025
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Compare this location to others worldwide for solar PV potential
The solar PV analyses available on our website, including this one, are offered as a free service to the global community. Our aim is to provide education and aid informed decision-making regarding solar PV installations.
However, please note that these analyses are general guidance and may not meet specific project requirements. For in-depth, tailored forecasts and analysis crucial for feasibility studies or when pursuing maximum ROI from your solar projects, feel free to contact us; we offer comprehensive consulting services expressly for this purpose.
Helping you assess viability of solar PV for your site
Calculate Your Optimal Solar Panel Tilt Angle: A Comprehensive Guide
Enhance your solar panel's performance with our in-depth guide. Determine the best tilt angle using hard data, debunk common misunderstandings, and gain insight into how your specific location affects solar energy production.
