Solar PV Analysis of Tsumeb, Namibia
Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia, situated at latitude -19.2484 and longitude 17.7135, offers a promising location for solar energy generation. Located in the tropics, this area experiences relatively consistent sunlight throughout the year, with seasons characterized more by wet and dry periods rather than significant temperature fluctuations.
The solar energy potential in Tsumeb is substantial, with impressive electricity output across all seasons. Spring stands out as the most productive period, generating an average of 7.84 kWh per day for each kilowatt of installed solar capacity. Summer follows closely with 6.87 kWh/day, while autumn and winter maintain respectable outputs of 6.25 kWh/day and 5.87 kWh/day, respectively.
Optimal Panel Positioning
To maximize year-round solar energy production in Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, fixed solar panels should be tilted at an 18-degree angle facing north. This optimal angle takes into account the location's latitude and the Earth's elliptical orbit, ensuring the panels capture the most sunlight throughout the year.
Environmental Considerations
While Tsumeb's climate is generally favorable for solar energy production, there are a few environmental factors to consider:
- Dust storms: The region may experience occasional dust storms, which can reduce panel efficiency.
- High temperatures: Extreme heat can slightly decrease solar panel performance.
To mitigate these issues, regular panel cleaning and maintenance should be implemented. Additionally, installing panels with a slight elevation above the ground can help reduce dust accumulation and improve air circulation, enhancing overall system performance.
In conclusion, Tsumeb's location offers excellent potential for solar energy generation throughout the year. With proper installation techniques and regular maintenance, solar PV systems in this area can provide a reliable and sustainable source of electricity.
Note: The Tropics are located between 23.5° North and -23.5° South of the equator.
So far, we have conducted calculations to evaluate the solar photovoltaic (PV) potential in 13 locations across Namibia. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Namibia by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Tsumeb
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: -19.2484, Longitude: 17.7135 (Tsumeb, Namibia), 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 18° North in Tsumeb, Namibia
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Tsumeb, Namibia (Lat/Long -19.2484, 17.7135) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 18° North 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 Tsumeb, Namibia
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 Tsumeb, Namibia. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 18° North tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3° North in Summer | 25° North in Autumn | 35° North in Winter | 13° North 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 Tsumeb, Namibia
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 Tsumeb, Namibia.
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 Tsumeb, Namibia
The area around Tsumeb, Namibia, is characterized by a relatively flat to gently undulating landscape. Tsumeb itself sits at an elevation of about 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) above sea level. The surrounding region is part of the larger Otavi Mountain Land, which consists of low-lying hills and scattered rocky outcrops rather than dramatic mountain ranges.
The terrain in this part of Namibia is primarily composed of savanna grasslands interspersed with bushveld vegetation. This means you'll find open grassy areas dotted with shrubs and small trees, typical of the semi-arid climate of northern Namibia. The soil in the region is generally sandy and well-drained, with some areas featuring limestone formations due to the area's geological history.
When considering areas nearby that would be most suited for large-scale solar PV (photovoltaic) installations, several factors come into play. Ideally, you'd want relatively flat terrain with good sun exposure throughout the day. The areas to the south and east of Tsumeb would likely be the most suitable for such projects.
These regions tend to have fewer trees and more open spaces, which would minimize shading issues for solar panels. The flat to gently sloping terrain would make construction and maintenance easier compared to more rugged areas. Additionally, being closer to Tsumeb would provide better access to existing infrastructure and the power grid.
It's worth noting that while the entire region receives abundant sunshine year-round, making it generally favorable for solar energy production, specific site selection would require detailed environmental and geological surveys. Factors such as soil stability, drainage patterns, and proximity to sensitive ecosystems would need to be carefully evaluated before embarking on any large-scale solar project in the area.
Namibia solar PV Stats as a country
Namibia ranks 79th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 145 total MW's of solar PV installed. Each year Namibia is generating 57 Watts from solar PV per capita (Namibia ranks 49th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Namibia?
Yes, there are incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Namibia. The government of Namibia has implemented a number of policies and initiatives to promote the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power. These include tax exemptions on imported equipment used for solar installations, subsidies for the installation of rooftop photovoltaic systems, and grants for research and development projects related to renewable energy. Additionally, the government has established a Renewable Energy Fund which provides financial support to businesses that wish to invest in renewable energy projects.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Namibia? 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: Tuesday 20th of August 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.
