Solar PV Analysis of Ourense, Spain
Ourense, Galicia, Spain, situated at latitude 42.3514° N and longitude 7.8838° W, presents a varied landscape for solar energy generation throughout the year. This location in the Northern Temperate Zone experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in solar energy production, which impacts the overall efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Seasonal Solar Energy Production
The solar energy output at this location varies considerably across the seasons. Summer stands out as the most productive period, with an impressive 7.12 kWh per day for each kilowatt of installed solar capacity. Spring follows as the second most productive season, generating 5.55 kWh/day. Autumn sees a notable decrease to 3.55 kWh/day, while winter experiences the lowest output at 1.95 kWh/day.
These figures highlight that the most ideal times for solar energy generation in Ourense are during the spring and summer months, typically from April through September. During this period, longer daylight hours and higher sun angles contribute to increased solar panel efficiency.
Optimal Panel Tilt Angle
For fixed solar panel installations in Ourense, Galicia, the ideal tilt angle to maximize year-round energy production is 36 degrees facing south. This angle is calculated based on the location's latitude and takes into account the Earth's elliptical orbit and seasonal variations in solar elevation.
Environmental and Weather Considerations
While Ourense generally offers favorable conditions for solar energy production, there are some factors that could potentially impact efficiency:
- Fog and cloud cover: Ourense experiences occasional foggy days, particularly in autumn and winter, which can reduce solar irradiance.
- Dust and pollen: The region's agricultural activities may lead to increased dust and pollen in the air, potentially accumulating on solar panels.
To mitigate these factors, regular cleaning and maintenance of solar panels is crucial. Installing panels at the optimal angle helps maximize exposure to sunlight and can aid in natural cleaning during rainfall. Additionally, considering a tracking system that adjusts panel angles throughout the day could further enhance energy production, especially during the less productive winter months.
In conclusion, while Ourense's location presents some challenges for year-round solar energy production, particularly in winter, it still offers significant potential for solar PV systems, especially during the spring and summer seasons. With proper installation techniques and regular maintenance, solar energy can be a viable and efficient renewable energy source in this Spanish city.
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 361 locations across Spain. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Spain by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Ourense
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 42.3514, Longitude: -7.8838 (Ourense, Spain), 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 36° South in Ourense, Spain
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Ourense, Spain (Lat/Long 42.3514, -7.8838) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 36° 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 Ourense, Spain
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 Ourense, Spain. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 36° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26° South in Summer | 47° South in Autumn | 57° South in Winter | 35° 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 Ourense, Spain
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 Ourense, Spain.
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 Ourense, Spain
The topography around Ourense, Spain, is characterized by a mix of hilly terrain and river valleys. The city itself is situated in a basin along the Miño River, surrounded by gentle hills and low mountains. This area is part of the Galician Massif, an ancient mountain range that has been eroded over millions of years, resulting in a landscape of rolling hills and plateaus.
To the north and east of Ourense, the terrain becomes more mountainous, with the Manzaneda mountain range rising to elevations of over 1,700 meters (5,577 feet). These mountains are part of the larger Cantabrian Mountains system. To the south and west, the landscape is generally less rugged, with lower hills and broader valleys.
The Miño River and its tributaries have carved out numerous valleys in the region, creating a network of waterways that shape the local topography. These river valleys often feature steep slopes and terraced hillsides, which have historically been used for agriculture, particularly vineyards.
Regarding areas nearby that would be most suited for large-scale solar PV (photovoltaic) installations, the following considerations should be taken into account:
The most suitable areas for solar PV would likely be found in the flatter, more open spaces to the south and west of Ourense. These areas generally receive more direct sunlight throughout the day and have fewer obstructions from mountains or tall hills. Specifically, the plateaus and gentle slopes in the direction of Xinzo de Limia and Verín might offer good potential for solar installations.
However, it's important to note that while the hilly terrain around Ourense may present some challenges for large-scale solar farms, it doesn't necessarily preclude their development. Modern solar technologies can be adapted to work effectively on slopes and uneven terrain. Some hillsides with a southern exposure could potentially be suitable for solar installations, as they would receive ample sunlight throughout the day.
Ultimately, the selection of sites for large-scale solar PV would require detailed surveys and environmental impact assessments. Factors such as local climate patterns, proximity to power infrastructure, and land use regulations would all need to be carefully considered alongside the topographical features of the region.
Spain solar PV Stats as a country
Spain ranks 10th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 15,952 total MW's of solar PV installed. This means that 9.00% of Spain's total energy as a country comes from solar PV (that's 6th in the world). Each year Spain is generating 237 Watts from solar PV per capita (Spain ranks 20th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Spain?
Yes, there are several incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Spain. These include the following:
1. The Spanish government offers a feed-in tariff (FIT) for businesses that install solar energy systems. This FIT guarantees a fixed price per kWh of electricity generated by the system over a period of 20 years.
2. Businesses can also benefit from tax deductions and other financial incentives when installing solar energy systems in Spain.
3. Companies may be eligible for grants or subsidies from regional governments or local authorities to help cover the cost of installation and maintenance of their solar energy systems.
4. Businesses may also be able to take advantage of net metering, which allows them to sell excess electricity generated by their solar energy system back into the grid at market prices, thus reducing their overall electricity costs even further.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Spain? 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: Sunday 1st of September 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.
