Solar PV Analysis of Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka
Nittambuwa, Western Province, Sri Lanka, situated at latitude 7.143 and longitude 80.0933, presents a favorable location for solar PV energy generation throughout the year. This tropical setting benefits from consistent sunlight, with seasons primarily characterized by wet and dry periods rather than significant temperature variations.
The solar energy potential in Nittambuwa remains relatively stable across all meteorological seasons, with only minor fluctuations. Spring emerges as the most productive season, yielding an impressive 6.23 kWh per day for each kilowatt of installed solar capacity. Summer and winter follow closely, generating 5.89 kWh/day and 5.71 kWh/day, respectively. Autumn experiences a slight dip but still maintains a respectable output of 5.09 kWh/day.
Optimal Panel Placement
For fixed panel installations in Nittambuwa, Western Province, the ideal tilt angle to maximize year-round solar production is 6 degrees South. This slight tilt helps optimize energy capture throughout the year, accounting for the location's proximity to the equator and the Earth's elliptical orbit.
Environmental Considerations
While Nittambuwa's climate is generally conducive to solar energy production, there are some environmental factors to consider. The region experiences a monsoon season, typically from May to September, which can bring increased cloud cover and rainfall. This may temporarily reduce solar output during these months.
To mitigate the impact of monsoon weather, consider implementing the following measures:
- Use high-quality, weather-resistant solar panels designed to perform well in humid conditions
- Install a robust drainage system to prevent water accumulation on panels
- Implement regular cleaning schedules to remove dust and debris, which can accumulate more quickly during dry periods between rains
By addressing these environmental factors and optimizing panel placement, solar PV installations in Nittambuwa can harness the location's abundant sunlight effectively, providing a reliable source of renewable energy throughout the year.
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 109 locations across Sri Lanka. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Sri Lanka by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Nittambuwa
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 7.143, Longitude: 80.0933 (Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka), 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 6° South in Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka (Lat/Long 7.143, 80.0933) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 6° 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 Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka
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 Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 6° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9° North in Summer | 13° South in Autumn | 22° South in Winter | 1° 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 Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka
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 Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka.
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 Nittambuwa, Sri Lanka
Nittambuwa, located in the western part of Sri Lanka, is situated in an area with varied topography. The landscape around Nittambuwa is characterized by a mix of gently rolling hills, small valleys, and some flat areas. The region is part of the country's wet zone, which means it receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year.
The terrain in this area gradually rises as you move eastward from the coastal plains towards the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Nittambuwa itself sits at an elevation of about 40-60 meters above sea level. The surrounding area features numerous small streams and rivers that flow through the landscape, creating a network of water bodies that contribute to the region's lush vegetation.
As for areas nearby that would be most suited to large-scale solar PV (photovoltaic) installations, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
The most suitable locations for solar PV projects would be relatively flat areas with minimal shading from trees or hills. Some of the gently sloping hillsides to the east of Nittambuwa could potentially be good candidates, as they may receive more consistent sunlight throughout the day. However, care must be taken to avoid areas with dense forest cover or agricultural importance.
The flatter regions to the west of Nittambuwa, as you move towards the coast, might also offer suitable locations for solar farms. These areas tend to have fewer elevation changes and could provide the necessary space for large-scale installations.
It's important to note that while the region around Nittambuwa does receive ample sunlight, the frequent rainfall and occasional cloud cover characteristic of Sri Lanka's wet zone may impact the overall efficiency of solar PV systems. Therefore, careful site selection and thorough feasibility studies would be crucial for any large-scale solar project in this area.
Additionally, any potential solar PV development would need to consider local land use patterns, environmental impacts, and proximity to existing electrical infrastructure for grid connection. Consultation with local authorities and environmental experts would be essential to identify the most appropriate locations that balance energy production needs with environmental and community considerations.
Sri Lanka solar PV Stats as a country
Sri Lanka ranks 55th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 434 total MW's of solar PV installed. Each year Sri Lanka is generating 20 Watts from solar PV per capita (Sri Lanka ranks 66th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Sri Lanka?
Yes, there are incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Sri Lanka. The government of Sri Lanka has implemented a number of policies and programs to promote the use of renewable energy sources such as solar power. These include tax exemptions, subsidies, and other financial incentives for businesses that install solar systems. Additionally, the government has set up a Renewable Energy Fund which provides grants to support research and development activities related to renewable energy technologies.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Sri Lanka? 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: Saturday 27th of July 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.
