Clonmel, Munster, Ireland, situated at latitude 52.3512 and longitude -7.7064, presents a mixed landscape for solar energy production throughout the year. This location in the Northern Temperate Zone experiences significant seasonal variations in solar output, which impacts the overall efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems.

Seasonal Solar Performance

The solar energy potential in Clonmel fluctuates considerably across the four meteorological seasons. Summer stands out as the most productive period, with an average daily output of 5.39 kWh per kW of installed solar capacity. Spring follows as the second-best season, yielding 4.42 kWh/day. However, the colder months see a dramatic decline in energy production, with autumn generating 2.10 kWh/day and winter dropping to a mere 1.01 kWh/day. These figures highlight the stark contrast between the warmer and colder months, emphasizing the challenges of relying solely on solar power throughout the year in Clonmel.

Optimal Panel Positioning

To maximize year-round solar energy production in Clonmel, Munster, fixed solar panels should be installed at a tilt angle of 44 degrees facing south. This angle has been calculated to optimize the capture of available sunlight across all seasons, taking into account the location's latitude and the Earth's elliptical orbit.

Environmental and Weather Considerations

Several factors can impact solar energy production in Clonmel: 1. Cloud cover: Ireland is known for its frequent cloudy weather, which can significantly reduce solar panel efficiency. 2. Rainfall: Clonmel experiences considerable rainfall throughout the year, which can affect panel performance. 3. Short winter days: The location's northern latitude results in limited daylight hours during winter months. To mitigate these challenges, consider the following preventative measures:

• Use high-efficiency solar panels designed to perform well in low-light conditions
• Implement a robust cleaning schedule to remove dirt and debris that may accumulate due to rainfall
• Consider incorporating energy storage solutions to balance out seasonal variations in production

While Clonmel's location presents some challenges for solar energy production, particularly during the colder months, proper system design and maintenance can help maximize the benefits of this renewable energy source. The significant output during summer and spring months can partially offset the reduced production in autumn and winter, making solar PV a viable option for supplementing energy needs in this Irish town.

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 104 locations across Ireland. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.

Link: Solar PV potential in Ireland by location

Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Clonmel

Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 52.3512, Longitude: -7.7064 (Clonmel, Ireland), 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 44° South in Clonmel, Ireland

To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Clonmel, Ireland (Lat/Long 52.3512, -7.7064) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 44° 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 Clonmel, Ireland

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 Clonmel, Ireland. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 44° South tilt angle throughout the year.

Overall Best Summer Angle	Overall Best Autumn Angle	Overall Best Winter Angle	Overall Best Spring Angle
36° South in Summer	56° South in Autumn	66° South in Winter	44° 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 Clonmel, Ireland

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 Clonmel, Ireland.

Our calculation method

1. Solar Position:
   We determine the Sun's position on the Winter solstice using the location's latitude and solar declination.
2. Shadow Projection:
   We calculate the shadow length cast by panels using trigonometry, considering panel tilt and the Sun's elevation angle.
3. 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 Clonmel, Ireland

The topography around Clonmel, Ireland, is characterized by a diverse landscape that combines river valleys, rolling hills, and low-lying plains. Situated in the southern part of County Tipperary, Clonmel is nestled in the picturesque Suir Valley, with the River Suir flowing through the town. The surrounding area features a mix of gentle slopes and more pronounced elevations, creating a varied and scenic environment. To the north of Clonmel, the terrain gradually rises towards the Slieveardagh Hills, which form a modest upland area. These hills, while not particularly high, provide a notable contrast to the flatter lands closer to the town. To the south, the landscape opens up into the broader Suir Valley, with its fertile agricultural lands and scattered woodlands. The Comeragh Mountains, located to the southeast of Clonmel, are a prominent feature of the region's topography. These mountains, with their rugged peaks and steep slopes, create a dramatic backdrop to the otherwise gentler terrain surrounding the town. The Comeraghs also influence local weather patterns and contribute to the area's scenic beauty.

Areas Suitable for Large-Scale Solar PV

When considering locations for large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) installations near Clonmel, several factors come into play, including topography, land use, and access to the electrical grid. The most suitable areas for such projects would likely be found in the flatter, more open spaces surrounding the town. The low-lying agricultural lands in the Suir Valley, particularly to the south and east of Clonmel, offer potential for solar PV development. These areas benefit from relatively flat terrain, which simplifies installation and maximizes sun exposure throughout the day. The open nature of these lands also means fewer obstacles that could cast shadows on solar panels. Some of the gently sloping hillsides to the north and west of Clonmel might also be suitable for solar installations, especially those facing south or southwest. These locations could potentially capture more sunlight due to their elevated position and orientation. However, it's important to note that any large-scale solar PV project would need to balance energy production potential with other considerations, such as preserving agricultural land, protecting scenic views, and respecting local environmental and cultural heritage. Areas close to existing electrical infrastructure would be advantageous for connecting new solar installations to the grid. Ultimately, detailed site assessments and environmental impact studies would be necessary to determine the most appropriate locations for large-scale solar PV projects in the vicinity of Clonmel, taking into account both the physical characteristics of the land and the broader community and environmental context.

Ireland solar PV Stats as a country

Ireland ranks 83rd in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 136 total MW's of solar PV installed. Each year Ireland is generating 27 Watts from solar PV per capita (Ireland ranks 61st in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]

Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Ireland?

Yes, there are a number of incentives available for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Ireland. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers grants and other financial support for businesses that wish to install solar PV systems. Additionally, the government has introduced a Feed-in Tariff scheme which pays businesses for any excess electricity they generate from their solar panels. Finally, businesses may be eligible for tax relief on the cost of installing a solar system through the Accelerated Capital Allowance Scheme.

Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Ireland? Please reach out to us and help us keep this information current. Thanks!

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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.