Located in the tropical region of Vietnam, Cao Bang is well-suited for solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation. The city enjoys high solar irradiance values throughout the year, making it a promising location for harnessing solar energy.
During the summer season, when sunlight is abundant and consistent, one can expect to generate an average of 5.72 kWh per day for each kW of installed solar capacity. As we transition into autumn, the daily energy production dips slightly to 3.96 kWh per kW due to shorter daylight hours and less intense sunlight.
Winter sees a further reduction in solar output with an average yield of 3.08 kWh per day per kW owing to fewer daylight hours and lower sun intensity typical during this season in Cao Bang. However, as spring blossoms, there's a moderate increase in energy production reaching up to 3.69 kWh/day/kW thanks to lengthening days and increasing sun intensity.
The optimal tilt angle for fixed panel installations at this location is 19 degrees facing south which maximizes exposure towards the sun's path across the sky throughout different seasons.
However, certain local factors could potentially impede optimal PV performance at this site including heavy rainfall or storms that are not uncommon in tropical climates like Vietnam’s; these weather conditions could limit sunshine exposure on panels thereby reducing their output efficiency.
To mitigate these challenges during installation stage itself - consider using durable materials resistant against extreme weather conditions; also ensure proper drainage systems around your installation site so that water accumulation doesn't cause any damage or hinder panel operation; moreover regular maintenance checks post-installation will help quickly identify and rectify any potential issues ensuring your system continues operating at peak efficiency regardless of seasonal changes or weather disturbances.
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 160 locations across Vietnam. This analysis provides insights into each city/location's potential for harnessing solar energy through PV installations.
Link: Solar PV potential in Vietnam by location
Solar output per kW of installed solar PV by season in Cao Bang
Seasonal solar PV output for Latitude: 22.6652, Longitude: 106.2541 (Cao Bang, Vietnam), 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 19° South in Cao Bang, Vietnam
To maximize your solar PV system's energy output in Cao Bang, Vietnam (Lat/Long 22.6652, 106.2541) throughout the year, you should tilt your panels at an angle of 19° 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 Cao Bang, Vietnam
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 Cao Bang, Vietnam. As mentioned earlier, for fixed-panel solar PV installations, it is optimal to maintain a 19° South tilt angle throughout the year.
| Overall Best Summer Angle | Overall Best Autumn Angle | Overall Best Winter Angle | Overall Best Spring Angle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7° South in Summer | 27° South in Autumn | 38° South in Winter | 14° 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 Cao Bang, Vietnam
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 Cao Bang, Vietnam.
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 Cao Bang, Vietnam
The topography around Cao Bang, Vietnam is mountainous. Areas with elevated terrain and open spaces are most suitable for large-scale solar PV installations. The nearby areas of Ha Quang, Bao Lac, and Tra Linh have flat plains and hills that could be suitable for solar PV projects.
Vietnam solar PV Stats as a country
Vietnam ranks 9th in the world for cumulative solar PV capacity, with 16,660 total MW's of solar PV installed. Each year Vietnam is generating 171 Watts from solar PV per capita (Vietnam ranks 30th in the world for solar PV Watts generated per capita). [source]
Are there incentives for businesses to install solar in Vietnam?
Yes, there are several incentives for businesses wanting to install solar energy in Vietnam. The government has implemented a number of policies and programs to encourage the development of renewable energy sources, including solar energy. These include tax exemptions, preferential loans, and feed-in tariffs for electricity generated from solar power plants. Additionally, the government has established a Renewable Energy Development Fund to provide financial support for projects related to renewable energy sources such as solar power.
Do you have more up to date information than this on incentives towards solar PV projects in Vietnam? Please reach out to us and help us keep this information current. Thanks!
Citation Guide
Article Details for Citation
Author: Aaron Robinson
Publisher: profileSOLAR.com
First Published: Sunday 1st of October 2023
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.




