Solar Energy Potential in Kamitsutsuidori, Hyōgo, Japan

Kamitsutsuidori, Hyōgo, located in the Northern Sub Tropics of Japan, offers a promising location for solar energy generation throughout the year. With its geographical position at latitude 34.7065 and longitude 135.2106, this area experiences varying levels of solar potential across different seasons.

The solar energy output in Kamitsutsuidori fluctuates seasonally, with summer and spring being the most productive periods. During summer, solar panels can generate an impressive 5.30 kWh per day for each kilowatt of installed capacity. Spring follows closely behind with 5.20 kWh/day. Autumn sees a moderate decrease to 3.83 kWh/day, while winter experiences the lowest output at 3.05 kWh/day per kilowatt of installed solar.

For those considering a fixed panel installation in Kamitsutsuidori, Hyōgo, the ideal tilt angle to maximize year-round solar production is 31 degrees facing South. This angle has been carefully calculated to optimize energy capture throughout the year, taking into account the Earth's elliptical orbit and the location's specific solar elevation angles.

Seasonal Considerations

The most ideal times for solar energy generation in Kamitsutsuidori are during the summer and spring months. These seasons offer longer daylight hours and more direct sunlight, resulting in higher energy output. However, it's important to note that even during the less productive autumn and winter months, the location still provides a reasonable amount of solar energy, making it a viable option for year-round solar power generation.

Environmental and Weather Factors

While Kamitsutsuidori generally offers favorable conditions for solar energy production, there are some environmental and weather factors to consider:

• Typhoons: Japan is prone to typhoons, which can potentially damage solar installations if not properly secured.
• Heavy rainfall: The region experiences significant rainfall, which can temporarily reduce solar output.

To mitigate these risks, it's crucial to implement robust installation techniques. This includes using high-quality, weather-resistant solar panels and mounting systems designed to withstand strong winds and heavy rain. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning of the panels can help ensure optimal performance, especially during and after periods of inclement weather.

Despite these challenges, with proper planning and installation, Kamitsutsuidori remains an attractive location for solar energy generation, offering substantial potential for clean, renewable power throughout the year.

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

Link: Solar PV potential in Japan by location

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

Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 34.7065, Longitude: 135.2106 (Kamitsutsuidori, Japan), 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 31° South in Kamitsutsuidori, Japan

To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Kamitsutsuidori, Japan (Lat/Long 34.7065, 135.2106) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 31° 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 Kamitsutsuidori, Japan

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 Kamitsutsuidori, Japan. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 31° South tilt angle throughout the year.

Overall Best Summer Angle	Overall Best Autumn Angle	Overall Best Winter Angle	Overall Best Spring Angle
19° South in Summer	40° South in Autumn	49° South in Winter	28° 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 Kamitsutsuidori, Japan

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 Kamitsutsuidori, Japan.

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 Kamitsutsuidori, Japan

The area surrounding Kamitsutsuidori, Japan, located at latitude 34.7065 and longitude 135.2106, is characterized by a diverse and complex topography. This region is situated in the Kansai area of Japan, specifically within the urban landscape of Kobe City in Hyogo Prefecture. The immediate vicinity of Kamitsutsuidori features a relatively flat urban terrain, typical of a developed city area. However, as one moves away from the city center, the topography becomes more varied and interesting. To the north and northwest, the land begins to rise gradually, transitioning into the foothills of the Rokko mountain range. These mountains form a dramatic backdrop to the city, with steep slopes and forested areas. To the south and southeast, the terrain slopes gently towards Osaka Bay. This coastal area is largely flat and densely populated, with much of the land reclaimed from the sea over the years. The shoreline is heavily developed with port facilities, industrial zones, and urban infrastructure.

Potential Areas for Large-Scale Solar PV

When considering areas suitable for large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) installations near Kamitsutsuidori, several factors must be taken into account, including available space, sunlight exposure, and minimal shadowing from surrounding structures or natural features. The most promising areas for large-scale solar PV installations would likely be found in the less densely populated regions to the north and northwest of Kamitsutsuidori. The gently sloping foothills of the Rokko mountains could provide ideal locations for solar farms. These areas often have clearer skies and less air pollution compared to the urban center, which would enhance solar energy production efficiency. Another potential area for solar PV development could be on reclaimed land along the coast, particularly in industrial zones where large, flat rooftops of warehouses and factories could be utilized. While these areas may face some challenges due to potential sea breezes and salt spray, they offer the advantage of being close to existing power infrastructure and major energy consumers. It's important to note that while these areas may be topographically suitable, the actual feasibility of large-scale solar PV installations would depend on various other factors, including local regulations, land availability, environmental considerations, and the capacity of the existing power grid to accommodate new renewable energy sources.

Japan solar PV Stats as a country

Japan ranks 3rd in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 74,191 total MW's of solar PV installed. This means that 8.30% of Japan's total energy as a country comes from solar PV (that's 9th in the world). Each year Japan is generating 590 Watts from solar PV per capita (Japan ranks 4th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]

Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Japan?

Yes, there are several incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Japan. These include the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program, which provides a fixed price for electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar; subsidies and grants from local governments; tax credits; and loans with low interest rates. Additionally, businesses may be eligible for additional incentives depending on their location and type of installation.

Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Japan? 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.