Solar PV Analysis of Krokstadelva, Norway
Krokstadelva, Buskerud, Norway, situated at latitude 59.7682 and longitude 10.0206, presents a challenging location for year-round solar energy generation. Located in the Northern Temperate Zone, this area experiences significant seasonal variations in daylight hours and solar intensity, which greatly impact the potential for solar PV energy production.
Seasonal Solar Energy Production
The solar energy output at Krokstadelva varies dramatically throughout the year. Summer proves to be the most productive season, with an average daily output of 5.72 kWh per kW of installed solar capacity. Spring follows as the second-most productive season, generating 4.19 kWh per day. However, autumn and winter see a sharp decline in energy production, with outputs of 1.56 kWh and 0.60 kWh per day, respectively.
These figures highlight the stark contrast between the seasons, with summer producing nearly ten times more energy than winter. The most ideal times for solar energy generation in Krokstadelva are from late spring through early autumn, when daylight hours are longer and the sun's angle is more favorable.
Optimal Panel Installation
To maximize year-round solar energy production in Krokstadelva, Buskerud, fixed solar panels should be installed at a tilt angle of 50 degrees facing south. This angle has been calculated to optimize the capture of available sunlight throughout the year, considering the location's latitude and the Earth's elliptical orbit.
Environmental and Weather Factors
Several environmental and weather factors can significantly impact solar energy production in Krokstadelva:
- Long, dark winters: The location's high latitude results in very short days during winter, severely limiting solar energy production.
- Snow and ice accumulation: Winter precipitation can cover solar panels, reducing their efficiency.
To mitigate these challenges, consider the following preventative measures:
- Install panels at a steeper angle to promote snow shedding
- Use snow-removal systems or manual cleaning when necessary
- Implement bifacial solar panels to capture reflected light from snow
- Consider supplementing with other renewable energy sources during winter months
While Krokstadelva's location poses challenges for year-round solar energy production, careful planning and appropriate technology can still make solar PV a viable part of the local energy mix, particularly during the more productive months of the year.
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 114 locations across Norway. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Norway by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Krokstadelva
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 59.7682, Longitude: 10.0206 (Krokstadelva, Norway), 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 50° South in Krokstadelva, Norway
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Krokstadelva, Norway (Lat/Long 59.7682, 10.0206) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 50° 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 Krokstadelva, Norway
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 Krokstadelva, Norway. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 50° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 43° South in Summer | 61° South in Autumn | 72° South in Winter | 52° 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 Krokstadelva, Norway
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 Krokstadelva, Norway.
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 Krokstadelva, Norway
The area around Krokstadelva, Norway, is characterized by a diverse and picturesque topography typical of Scandinavian landscapes. Situated in the southeastern part of the country, this region features a mix of gently rolling hills, forested areas, and river valleys.
The terrain in and around Krokstadelva is generally undulating, with elevations ranging from about 100 to 300 meters above sea level. The area is part of the larger Drammen region, which is known for its fjords and surrounding hills. The Drammenselva river, a significant waterway in the area, has carved out valleys and influenced the local topography over thousands of years.
Forested areas are common in the region, with a mix of coniferous and deciduous trees covering many of the hillsides. These forests are interspersed with clearings and open areas, some of which are used for agriculture or residential purposes. The landscape also includes numerous small lakes and ponds, adding to the region's natural beauty and ecological diversity.
Suitability for Large-Scale Solar PV
When considering areas nearby that would be most suited to large-scale solar PV installations, there are several factors to take into account. The ideal locations would generally be:
- South-facing slopes: Gentle, south-facing hillsides in the area would be prime candidates for solar installations. These slopes receive more direct sunlight throughout the day, maximizing energy production.
- Open, cleared areas: Large, open fields or cleared land away from forested regions would be suitable. These areas should have minimal shading from trees or other obstacles.
- Elevated plateaus: If there are any relatively flat, elevated areas in the region, these could be excellent locations for solar farms. They would likely receive good sun exposure and potentially less atmospheric interference.
- Areas near existing infrastructure: Locations close to power lines and roads would be preferable for easier grid connection and maintenance access.
It's important to note that while Norway has a strong commitment to renewable energy, its high latitude means it receives less solar radiation compared to more southern countries. This factor, combined with long winter nights, may impact the overall efficiency of large-scale solar PV in the region. However, advancements in solar technology continue to improve efficiency even in less optimal conditions.
Any large-scale solar PV project in this area would need to carefully balance environmental considerations, land use regulations, and energy production potential. Local authorities and environmental experts should be consulted for specific site recommendations and feasibility studies.
Norway solar PV Stats as a country
Norway ranks 70th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 225 total MW's of solar PV installed. This means that 0.10% of Norway's total energy as a country comes from solar PV (that's 42nd in the world). Each year Norway is generating 42 Watts from solar PV per capita (Norway ranks 55th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Norway?
Yes, there are several incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Norway. The Norwegian government offers a range of financial support and tax breaks for businesses that invest in renewable energy sources such as solar power. This includes grants, loans, and tax deductions. Additionally, the Norwegian Energy Agency provides funding for research and development projects related to renewable energy technologies. Finally, the Norwegian Power Company (Statkraft) offers discounted electricity rates for businesses that use solar power.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Norway? 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: Wednesday 28th 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.
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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.
