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Solar PV Analysis of Parson, Canada
The location at Parson, British Columbia, Canada can generate a decent amount of energy from solar PV panels year-round, although it's not the best. The amount of electricity generated varies significantly by season.
During summer, each kW of installed solar can produce about 6.09 kWh per day - this is the best time for solar generation at this location. In spring, you can expect around 4.79 kWh per day per kW installed which is also quite good. However, in autumn and winter the output drops considerably to about 2.15 and 1.23 kWh/day respectively.
For fixed panel installations at this location, tilting the panels at an angle of 43 degrees towards the south would maximize total yearly production from solar PV.
As for environmental or local factors that could impede solar production - Parson is located in a mountainous region so shading from mountains could potentially be an issue depending on specific site conditions; snow cover in winter might also reduce output but typically snow slides off panels especially if they are tilted as recommended.
Preventative measures that can be taken when installing solar include choosing a site with minimal shading (away from tall trees or buildings) and ensuring panels are properly angled to maximize sun exposure throughout the year (43 degrees south). Regular cleaning and maintenance of panels will also help ensure optimal energy production; this includes removing any snow during winter months if necessary.
Overall though it's important to note that while there may be seasonal variations in production levels due to weather patterns etc., over time these tend to balance out so investing in Solar PV is still worthwhile even if some months are less productive than others.
Note: The Northern Temperate Zone extends from 35° latitude North up to 66.5° latitude.
So far, we have conducted calculations to evaluate the solar photovoltaic (PV) potential in 569 locations across Canada. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Canada by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Parson
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 51.0667, Longitude: -116.65 (Parson, Canada), 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 43° South in Parson, Canada
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Parson, Canada (Lat/Long 51.0667, -116.65) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 43° 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 Parson, Canada
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 Parson, Canada. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 43° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34° South in Summer | 54° South in Autumn | 65° South in Winter | 43° 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 Parson, Canada
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 Parson, Canada.
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 Parson, Canada
Parson, Canada is located in the province of British Columbia and is characterized by a diverse topography. The region features mountainous terrain due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, with significant elevation changes, valleys, and numerous water bodies including rivers and lakes. This area is also heavily forested.
When it comes to large-scale solar PV installations, flat or gently sloping areas are typically most suitable as they can accommodate large arrays of panels with minimal modification to the landscape. Given Parson's mountainous and forested terrain, there may be limited suitable areas for large-scale solar PV installations within close proximity.
However, cleared lands such as agricultural fields or other open spaces could potentially be used for such purposes if they receive ample sunlight throughout the year. It's also worth noting that while British Columbia does get a fair amount of sunlight annually, its northern latitude means that daylight hours will vary significantly between summer and winter.
For optimal solar energy production in this region, it would be important to consider not only topography but also factors like local climate (including cloud cover), vegetation cover (which could shade panels), and seasonal variations in sunlight availability.
As for specific locations near Parson that might be suited for large-scale solar PV projects would require more detailed study involving GIS mapping and site surveys among others. It's recommended consulting with local authorities or companies specializing in renewable energy development who would have access to more precise data about potential sites.
Canada solar PV Stats as a country
Canada ranks 23rd in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 3,630 total MW's of solar PV installed. This means that 0.70% of Canada's total energy as a country comes from solar PV (that's 38th in the world). Each year Canada is generating 96 Watts from solar PV per capita (Canada ranks 40th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Canada?
There are several incentives for businesses to install solar power systems in Canada. These incentives vary by province and can include:
1. Federal Tax Incentives:- Accelerated Capital Cost Allowance (CCA): Businesses can write off the full cost of clean energy equipment in the year it's put into use.
- Ontario: Save on Energy program offers incentives for businesses to reduce energy consumption.
- Alberta: Energy Efficiency Alberta offers rebates for solar PV installations.
- British Columbia: BC Hydro offers a net metering program. BC Hydro also offers rebates for solar panels and battery storage.
- Nova Scotia: Solar Electricity for Community Buildings Program.
Many provinces ofer net metering, allowing businesses to sell excess electricity back to the grid.
4. Grants and Loans:Some provinces offer grants or low-interest loans for renewable energy projects.
5. Carbon Pricing:The federal carbon pricing system can make solar more competitive compared to fossil fuels.
6. Municipal Incentives:Some cities offer additional incentives or property tax reductions for solar installations.
7. Reduced Operating Costs:While not a direct incentive, businesses can significantly reduce their long-term energy costs.
Note: Incentives and programs can change over time, so businesses should check with local authorities and energy providers for the most up-to-date information.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Canada? Please reach out to us and help us keep this information current. Thanks!
Citation Guide
Article Details for Citation
Author: Aaron Robinson
Publisher: profileSOLAR.com
First Published: Tuesday 12th of March 2024
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.
