Solar PV Analysis of Elva, Estonia
In Elva, Tartu, Estonia, located at latitude 58.2248 and longitude 26.4156, the average solar energy production varies significantly by season due to its geographical location within the Northern Temperate Zone. During summer months, each kW of installed solar capacity generates an average of 5.81 kWh per day. However, as daylight hours decrease in autumn and winter months, this figure drops to 1.64 kWh/day in Autumn and further to just 0.55 kWh/day in Winter due to shorter days and lower sun intensity associated with these seasons.
By springtime when daylight hours start increasing again but temperatures are still relatively low which can increase panel efficiency somewhat - the daily generation increases significantly up to an average of 3.90 kWh/day per kW installed.
The ideal tilt angle for fixed solar panels at this location is towards the south at a degree of approximately 48 degrees from horizontal; this will maximize exposure to sunlight throughout the year without need for tracking systems.
However it's important to note that local weather conditions can have a significant impact on solar power generation here too: The region often experiences heavy cloud cover or extended periods of snowfall during colder months which could reduce exposure time for panels or even cover them entirely - obstructing their access sunlight thus reducing their output potential considerably.
To mitigate against such issues affecting power generation from solar PV installations at this location, preventative measures could be taken such as installing snow guards or automated cleaning systems that keep panels clear from obstructions like snow or debris; regular maintenance checks should also be carried out especially after severe weather events ensuring optimal performance year-round despite these environmental challenges inherent with producing solar energy in Elva.
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 20 locations across Estonia. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Estonia by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Elva
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 58.2248, Longitude: 26.4156 (Elva, Estonia), 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 48° South in Elva, Estonia
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Elva, Estonia (Lat/Long 58.2248, 26.4156) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 48° 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 Elva, Estonia
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 Elva, Estonia. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 48° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 41° South in Summer | 60° South in Autumn | 71° South in Winter | 50° 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 Elva, Estonia
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 Elva, Estonia.
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 Elva, Estonia
The topography around Elva, Estonia is mostly flat with some rolling hills. Areas that are most suitable for large-scale solar PV installations would be those with the most direct sunlight and minimal shade from trees or buildings. The nearby area of Tartu County, which is located to the south of Elva, has a high amount of open land and relatively low cloud cover, making it an ideal location for solar PV installations. Additionally, areas in northern Estonia near Lake Peipus have plenty of open land as well and could also be suitable for large-scale solar PV projects.
Estonia solar PV Stats as a country
Estonia ranks 58th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 414 total MW's of solar PV installed. Each year Estonia is generating 311 Watts from solar PV per capita (Estonia ranks 13th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Estonia?
Yes, there are incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Estonia. The Estonian government offers a range of financial support and tax incentives for businesses that invest in renewable energy sources such as solar power. These include grants, loans, and tax deductions. Additionally, the government has set up a feed-in tariff system which guarantees a fixed price for electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar power.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Estonia? Please reach out to us and help us keep this information current. Thanks!
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Article Details for Citation
Author: Aaron Robinson
Publisher: profileSOLAR.com
First Published: Saturday 12th of August 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.
