The location of Tzum, Friesland, Netherlands, situated at latitude 53.1577 and longitude 5.5588, presents a mixed scenario for solar PV energy generation throughout the year. This northern temperate zone location experiences significant seasonal variations in solar energy production, which impacts the overall efficiency of solar installations.

Seasonal Solar Performance

Solar energy production in Tzum follows a predictable pattern aligned with the seasons. Summer months offer the highest energy yield, with an impressive 5.64 kWh per day for each kilowatt of installed solar capacity. Spring follows as the second most productive season, generating 4.46 kWh daily. However, autumn and winter see a dramatic decrease in energy output, with 2.02 kWh and 0.88 kWh per day, respectively.

The substantial difference between summer and winter production highlights the challenges of relying solely on solar energy in this location year-round. While summer provides ample sunlight for efficient energy generation, the winter months may require supplementary energy sources to meet demand.

Optimal Panel Placement

To maximize year-round solar energy production in Tzum, Friesland, fixed solar panels should be installed at a tilt angle of 44 degrees facing south. This angle optimizes the panels' exposure to sunlight throughout the year, considering the location's latitude and seasonal sun path variations.

Environmental Factors and Mitigation

Several environmental factors can impact solar energy production in Tzum:

1. Cloud cover: The Netherlands is known for its frequent cloudy weather, which can significantly reduce solar panel efficiency. Using high-efficiency panels and incorporating energy storage systems can help mitigate this issue.
2. Short winter days: With its northern latitude, Tzum experiences very short days during winter, limiting solar energy production. Implementing tracking systems or bifacial panels can help maximize light capture during these periods.
3. Potential for snow and frost: Winter conditions may lead to snow or frost accumulation on panels. Installing panels at a steeper angle and using self-cleaning or hydrophobic coatings can help prevent buildup and maintain efficiency.

By addressing these factors through thoughtful system design and technology choices, solar installations in Tzum can achieve better year-round performance despite the challenging environmental conditions.

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

Link: Solar PV potential in Netherlands by location

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

Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 53.1577, Longitude: 5.5588 (Tzum, Netherlands), 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 Tzum, Netherlands

To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Tzum, Netherlands (Lat/Long 53.1577, 5.5588) 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 Tzum, Netherlands

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 Tzum, Netherlands. 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	55° South in Autumn	66° South in Winter	45° 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 Tzum, Netherlands

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 Tzum, Netherlands.

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 Tzum, Netherlands

The topography around Tzum, Netherlands, is characterized by its remarkably flat landscape. Located in the province of Friesland, this area is part of the larger Dutch lowlands, which are known for their minimal elevation changes and expansive, open vistas. The terrain surrounding Tzum is predominantly composed of reclaimed land, or polders, which have been meticulously drained and protected from flooding over centuries of Dutch water management. The landscape is dotted with numerous waterways, including small rivers, canals, and drainage ditches that crisscross the region. These water features are not only crucial for managing water levels but also contribute to the area's distinctive appearance. Fields and meadows stretch out as far as the eye can see, creating a patchwork of agricultural land that is typical of this part of the Netherlands.

Suitability for Large-Scale Solar PV

When considering areas nearby that would be most suited to large-scale solar PV installations, several factors come into play. The flat terrain around Tzum offers significant advantages for solar energy development. The lack of natural obstacles means that there are few issues with shading, and the open spaces provide ample room for extensive arrays of solar panels. Agricultural land in the vicinity of Tzum could potentially be repurposed for solar farms. However, it's important to note that the Netherlands places a high value on its agricultural productivity, so any large-scale solar projects would need to be carefully balanced with food production needs. Areas near existing infrastructure, such as power lines and substations, would be particularly advantageous for solar PV development. This could minimize the costs associated with connecting new solar installations to the grid. Additionally, land that is less agriculturally productive or areas that have been set aside for industrial use might be prime candidates for solar energy projects. The coastal areas to the north and west of Tzum, while slightly more distant, could also be considered for solar PV installations. These regions often experience higher wind speeds, which can help cool solar panels and improve their efficiency. However, the potential impact on local ecosystems and tourism would need to be carefully evaluated. In conclusion, while the entire region around Tzum offers favorable topography for solar PV, the most suitable areas would likely be those that strike a balance between optimal solar conditions, proximity to existing infrastructure, and minimal disruption to valuable agricultural land and natural habitats.

Netherlands solar PV Stats as a country

Netherlands ranks 12th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 14,249 total MW's of solar PV installed. This means that 8.90% of Netherlands's total energy as a country comes from solar PV (that's 7th in the world). Each year Netherlands is generating 817 Watts from solar PV per capita (Netherlands ranks 1st in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]

Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Netherlands?

Yes, there are several incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in the Netherlands. The Dutch government offers a number of financial incentives and subsidies for businesses that invest in renewable energy sources such as solar power. These include grants, tax credits, and low-interest loans. Additionally, businesses can benefit from net metering policies which allow them to sell excess electricity back to the grid at a premium rate. Finally, businesses may also be eligible for additional funding through the European Union's Horizon 2020 program.

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

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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.