Optimization of Tilt Angle for Solar PV Panels and Feasibility of Stand

Project Objective and Scope:

This is a two-part project focused on simulating and optimizing the performance of a photovoltaic (PV) solar panel system by determining the optimal tilt angle for maximizing solar energy absorption throughout the year, as well as the feasibility of a stand alone solar and wind power in a Canadian site in Tillsonburg, Ontario. The study involved detailed monthly and seasonal solar radiation analysis, utilizing solar geometry equations and empirical models. The project also included the simulation of hourly radiation profiles and PV energy output for various tilt configurations.
To determine the optimal tilt angles (βopt) for a solar PV panel at a fixed location (42.85°N, 80.73°W) across each month of the year, to maximize the monthly average daily total solar radiation and improve the electrical power output. The analysis used both isotropic radiation models and performance simulation metrics to evaluate energy contributions from beam, diffuse, and ground-reflected radiation, aiming to enhance solar panel design efficiency for Canadian climatic conditions.
The second part of the project involved the full system design of a stand-alone hybrid renewable energy setup for a water treatment facility in the same site coordinates. This system included solar PV, wind turbines, and battery energy storage, supported by a diesel generator as a backup. Using HOMER Pro software, detailed site-specific simulations were conducted to size system components based on load profiles, weather data, and energy demands. Key performance indicators such as Net Present Cost (NPC), Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), excess energy, and renewable fraction were calculated to assess cost-effectiveness and energy independence. A study and commercial component selection further ensured feasibility and scalability. The final optimized system achieved nearly 90% renewable energy fraction with minimal un-met load and good economic viability.
These projects were carried out individually with a three-week period for each project. These renewable energy projects provide substantial value to clients by offering cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally sustainable solutions tailored for Canadian conditions. By optimizing solar panel tilt angles and designing hybrid PV/wind systems with integrated battery storage, the projects reduce long-term energy costs and minimize reliance on fossil fuels. With a strong focus on measurable outcomes such as reduced carbon emissions, improved renewable energy fraction, and lower Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), stakeholders gain clear insight into performance and return on investment.


Methodology

The project methodology followed a computational and simulation-based approach to design and optimize renewable energy systems. Microsoft Excel and HOMER Pro were the primary tools used for modeling, data analysis, and performance simulations. The workflow involved the following key steps:
1. Site Selection and Data Preparation:
A fixed location in Tillsonburg, Ontario (42.85°N, 80.73°W) was selected for both studies due to its representative Canadian climate and availability of solar and wind resource data. Input parameters such as latitude, solar irradiance, wind speed, clearness index, temperature, and ground reflectance were collected from course datasets and HOMER’s built-in databases.
2. Solar Geometry and Tilt Optimization (Excel-Based):
Using solar geometry equations, monthly values of hour angle, declination angle, solar incidence angle, and solar radiation components were calculated. Excel spreadsheets were developed to compute beam, diffuse, and ground-reflected radiation using isotropic models. Monthly average daily radiation values on tilted surfaces were used to evaluate PV panel energy output at various tilt angles (3° to 90°). The optimal tilt angle was determined based on maximum total radiation received.
3. Hourly Radiation and Energy Profile Generation:
Custom Excel logic was implemented to simulate daylight hours, calculate tilt-specific radiation values, and remove invalid or negative entries. Hourly and seasonal energy outputs were compiled to evaluate the effect of tilt angle on annual solar performance.