1.
Overview
The report aims to provide useful insights into the possible benefits and limitations of
residential solar panel systems in Bloemfontein with the given specifications and location,
allowing homeowners and policymakers to make informed decisions about solar energy
adoption.
2. Keywords
• Solar energy
• Solar panels
• Irradiance
• Tilt angle
• Renewable energy
• Sustainable energy
• Economic feasibility
• Environmental impact
3. Table of Contents
1. Overview ........................................................................................................................... 1
2. Keywords .......................................................................................................................... 1
[Link] of Tables ...................................................................................................................... 3
5. List of Figures ................................................................................................................... 4
6. List of Equations ............................................................................................................... 5
7. Definitions ......................................................................................................................... 5
8. Abbreviations and Acronyms ............................................................................................. 5
9. Acknowledgements ........................................................................................................... 5
10. Abstract ........................................................................................................................... 6
11. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 6
12. Literature Study ............................................................................................................... 6
12.1 Solar Energy ................................................................................................................. 6
12.2 Solar thermal heating .................................................................................................... 9
12.3 Benefits to Society ........................................................................................................ 9
12.4 Limitations to Society .................................................................................................... 9
12.5 Occupational and Public Health and Safety................................................................. 10
12.6 Physical Environment .................................................................................................. 10
13. Methodology ................................................................................................................. 10
13.1 Calculations ................................................................................................................ 10
13.1.1 Electrical Usage ....................................................................................................... 10
13.1.2 Number of solar panels ............................................................................................ 13
13.2 Solar Thermal Energy ............................................................................................... 14
14. Findings ........................................................................................................................ 18
Types of solar panels: ......................................................................................................... 21
15. Results .......................................................................................................................... 21
16. Discussion..................................................................................................................... 22
17. Conclusion .................................................................................................................... 23
18. Recommendations ........................................................................................................ 23
19. References.................................................................................................................... 24
[Link] of Tables
Table 1: List of Appliances and their power consumption .................................................... 12
Table 2. Appliances' description .......................................................................................... 16
Table 3: Solar panel specifications ...................................................................................... 17
Table 4: Appliances energy consumption per day................................................................ 22
Table 5: Output Energy and number of solar panels ............................................................ 22
5. List of Figures
Figure 1: Azimuth Angle (Anon., n.d.) .................................................................................... 7
Figure 2: Orientation of solar panels (Solar, 2018) ................................................................ 8
Figure 3. Position of North and South poles with respect to sun in summer and winter
solstice (Rafferty, 2024)......................................................................................................... 9
Figure 4. Canadian Solar Hiku 380W (Anon., 2024) ............................................................ 17
Figure 5: Schematic of house.............................................................................................. 18
Figure 6: Orientation of solar panel ..................................................................................... 19
Figure 7. Seasonally adjusted solar panel tilt angles for Bloemfontein, South Africa
(Robinson, 2024) ................................................................................................................ 20
6. List of Equations
7. Definitions
Solar Angle: The amount of light absorbed by a solar panel is dependent on the angle at
which sunlight reaches it.
Azimuth angle: This is the direction of the sunlight coming from the horizon, typically
measured in degrees from true north.
Altitude Angel: This represents the sun's altitude in the sky, expressed in degrees relative
to the horizon. Because of Earth's tilt and orbit around the sun, it varies during the day and
the year.
Solar thermal heating: is a method that uses solar energy to generate heat, usually for
space or water heating.
Heat gain: is the increase in temperature within a building caused by external causes such
as sunlight passing through windows or other openings.
Heat Loss: The removal of heat from a building, typically by ventilation, windows, walls, or
other components.
Solar irradiance: is the amount of power received from the sun in the form of
electromagnetic radiation, measured in watts per square meter (W/m²).
8. Abbreviations and Acronyms
i) PSH – Peak Sun Hours
ii) kWh – Killowatt Hours
9. Acknowledgements
We would like to thank the following students who participated in our survey of proving
information of the appliances they would typically use and the average number of hours
used per day.
• Shabalala SN- 222086498, (061 304 8924)
• Mayixhale TH- 222063509, (0833412293)
• Mawasha RT- 223023971, (0730913770)
10. Abstract
The goal of this research is to improve the efficiency of solar thermal heating systems in
residential buildings in Bloemfontein and Mangaung. The study looks into heat gain through
windows, heat loss owing to ventilation, and the effectiveness of flat plate solar collectors.
We improved energy efficiency significantly by optimising the tilt angle and position of solar
panels, as well as using modern glass materials with high transmissivity and absorptivity.
The findings show that correct design and installation of solar thermal systems can result in
significant energy savings while also contributing to sustainable building practices.
11. Introduction
The global transition towards sustainable energy sources has increased emphasis on solar
power as a clean, renewable alternative to fossil fuels. South Africa, with its abundant
sunlight, offers an appealing chance to harness solar energy. Bloemfontein, located in the
Free State province, has a favourable solar climate, making it an ideal location for household
solar panel installations.
This research investigates the potential of solar energy in Bloemfontein by investigating the
region's sun irradiation, calculating appropriate tilt angles for solar panels, and evaluating the
economic viability of residential solar systems. The study's goal is to provide a
comprehensive understanding of the elements that influence solar energy generation in the
area, as well as recommendations for increasing energy output and cost-effectiveness.
12. Literature Study
12.1 Solar Energy
There are great financial and environmental advantages to integrating solar energy into
student housing. In addition to lowering greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on non-
renewable energy sources, solar power can save electricity costs.
Studies by highlight that South Africa is making efforts to increase the use of solar
photovoltaic energy (Uzziah Mutumbi, 2024). But it’s happening at a slow pace.
The ability of a solar panel to transform sunlight into useful electrical energy is referred to as
solar efficiency. A number of factors affect solar efficiency, and maximising energy production
requires an understanding of sun angles.
Solar Angle: The amount of light absorbed by a solar panel is dependent on the angle at
which sunlight reaches it. Taking into account are two primary angles:
Azimuth angle: This is the direction of the sunlight coming from the horizon, typically
measured in degrees from true north.
Figure 1: Azimuth Angle (Anon., n.d.)
Altitude Angel: This represents the sun's altitude in the sky, expressed in degrees relative
to the horizon. Because of Earth's tilt and orbit around the sun, it varies during the day and
the year.
To get the most sunshine during the day, solar panels in the Northern hemisphere should
ideally be orientated southward, while those in the Southern hemisphere should be
orientated northward. Exposure to sunlight is maximised with this angle, particularly during
the hours of maximum solar radiation.
Figure 2: Orientation of solar panels (Solar, 2018)
Optimal tilt: Efficiency can be strongly impacted by the installation angle of solar panels.
Your latitude and the ideal tilt angle are usually equal, but you can modify them to suit your
needs for different seasons of performance. The best performance should be achieved year-
round by tilting the panels at the latitude. Panels should be tilted at the latitude minus 10-15°
to lean towards more production in the summer and at the latitude plus 10-15° to lean
towards more production in the winter.
Figure 3. Position of North and South poles with respect to sun in summer and winter
solstice (Rafferty, 2024)
12.2 Solar thermal heating
The collector, or heat-capturing device, is the first and frequently most visible part of a solar
thermal system. The majority of low-temperature solar collectors rely on glass. Glass has the
unusual capacity to both allow short-wave infrared radiation to pass through and shield the
collection from long-wave infrared radiation reradiation. Thus, heat can be retained in the
collector. In the collector, the radiation will be absorbed by another substance and
transferred to another medium, such water, usually copper tubes or fins. (V, B, B, & K, 2016)
12.3 Benefits to Society
• Solar energy is a clean and sustainable source that helps reduce dependency on
fossil fuels, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
• Generating electricity on-site reduces reliance on traditional power networks,
providing energy independence for individuals and groups.
• Solar panel installation and maintenance provide economic benefits such as
employment creation, local economic stimulation, and decreased electricity bills.
• Reduced fossil fuel combustion results in cleaner air and better public health.
12.4 Limitations to Society
• Solar energy generation is intermittent and requires energy storage or grid integration
due to its reliance on sunshine.
• Large-scale solar arrays may harm agriculture and ecosystems due to the need for
large acreage.
• While solar panel costs have fallen, the initial expenditure can still be significant for
individuals.
12.5 Occupational and Public Health and Safety
• Manufacturing concerns: Materials used in solar panel fabrication may cause health
risks if not handled properly.
• Hazards during solar panel installation include falls and electrical shock.
• Proper disposal of solar panels prevents environmental contamination and health
concerns.
• Proper installation and maintenance are required to reduce the risk of fire associated
with solar panel installations.
12.6 Physical Environment
• Solar energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants, contributing to
climate change mitigation efforts.
• Large-scale solar farms may disrupt wildlife habitats and ecosystems.
• Solar panel manufacture requires a substantial amount of water.
• Proper recycling of solar panels reduces environmental impact.
Overall, solar panel technology has significant societal and environmental benefits;
nevertheless, any limitations and concerns must be carefully considered.
13. Methodology
13.1 Calculations
13.1.1 Electrical Usage
Total Power Consumptions per day for 1 house:
𝑃𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑑𝑎𝑦 = 𝑃𝐴𝑝𝑝𝑙𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 × 𝑡𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑑𝑎𝑦 ..........................................................
170L Fridge:
Assuming that a fridge typically stays on for 12 hours a day therefore:
Power consumption = 230 𝑥 12
= 2.76 𝑘𝑊ℎ 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑑𝑎𝑦
25 Liter geyser:
Assuming that a geyser is turned on for 30 minutes (0.5 hours) per day:
Power consumption = 3000 × 0.5
= 1.5 𝐾𝑊ℎ
2-Plate Stove with Oven:
Assuming that a student cooks for 1hour:
Power consumption = 3200 × 1
= 3.2 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Microwave:
Assuming that typical student might use the microwave for 12 minutes (0.2 hours)
Power consumption = 700 × 0.2
= 0.14 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Kettle:
Assuming that a typical student will use a kettle for about 30 minutes (0.5hours) per day
Power consumption = 2000 × 0.5
= 1 𝐾𝑊ℎ
LED Lights:
Assuming that a typical student will need 5 lights and keep the on for 5 hours:
Power consumption = (5 × 11) × (5 × 5)
= 1.375 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Iron:
Assuming that a student will iron their clothes for about 12 minutes (0.2hours):
Power consumption = 2000 × 0.2
= 0.4 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Washing Machine:
Assuming that the washing machine is used for 30 minutes (0.5hours) per day, even though
not necessarily daily:
Power consumption = 2200 × 0.5
= 1.1 𝐾𝑊ℎ
WiFi Router:
The router has to stay on the entire day (24hours)
Power consumption = 10 × 24
= 0.24 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Laptop Charger:
Assuming that a student typically has their laptop charger plugged for 8hours
Power consumption = 65 × 8
= 0.52 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Phone Charger:
Assuming that a student typically charges their phone twice per day, 2hours per charge
Power consumption = 20 × 4
= 0.08 𝐾𝑊ℎ
Table 1: List of Appliances and their power consumption
Wattage Daily Usage Energy consumption
List of Appliances
(W) (hrs) (kWh/day)
170L Fridge 230 12 2.76
25L Geyser 3000 0.5 1.5
Stove (2 Plate)/Oven 3200 1 3.2
Iron 2000 0.2 0.4
Microwave 700 0.2 0.14
Kettle 2000 0.5 1
Lights (LED) 11 (x5) 5 (x5) 1.375
WiFi Router 10 24 0.24
Computer Charger 65 8 0.52
Phone Charger 20 4 0.08
Washing Machine 2200 0.5 1.1
13.1.2 Number of solar panels
Total Daily Consumption = 2.76 + 1.5 + 3.2 + 0.4 + 0.14 + 1 + 1.375 + 0.24
+0.52 + 0.08 + 1.1
= 12.315𝑘𝑊ℎ/𝑑𝑎𝑦
Typical solar irradiances in winter during sun hours (Anon., 2024):
17, 219, 427, 577, 616, 589, 480, 295, 246, 168, 67
Total Solar Irradiance = 17 + 219 + 427 + 577 + 616 + 589 + 480 + 295 + 246 + 168 + 67
= 3701 𝑊/𝑚2
Assuming Peak Sun Hours=5.5 (Anon., 2024)
𝑀𝑜𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑙𝑦 𝑘𝑊ℎ
System Size= 𝑀𝑜𝑛𝑡ℎ𝑙𝑦 𝑃𝑒𝑎𝑘 𝑆𝑢𝑛 𝐻𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠 (Lane, 2024) ................................................. ()
(12.315×30)
=
5.5×30
= 2.24𝑘𝑊 𝑠𝑦𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑚
Assuming a Canadian Solar 380W Super High Power Mono PERC HiKU is used:
𝑆𝑦𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑚 𝑠𝑖𝑧𝑒
Number of panels required = 𝑆𝑜𝑙𝑎𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙 𝑊𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 ................................................. (1.3)
2.24
= 0.38
= 5.89 (≈ 6 𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑎𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙𝑠)
∴ 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑 = 6
13.2 Solar Thermal Energy
The heat loss due to ventilation occurs when the warm air of the room is replaced by cold,
but fresh air from outside.
Rate of heat loss due to ventilation:
𝐶𝑣×𝑉×𝑁×𝑇
𝑅=
3600
Where:
• Cv = volumetric specific heat capacity of air.
• V = volume of the room.
• N = is the number of air changes per hour.
• T = the difference between inside and outside air temperature.
Volumetric heat capacity at the altitude of 1395m and average temperature of 10 degree
Celsius.
𝐶𝑣 = 𝐶𝑝 × 𝜌
Where:
• Cp = specific heat capacity of air at 10 degree celsius = 1005j/kg
• ρ= density of air at altitude of 1395m and 10 degrees celsius = 1.2kg/m^3
𝐶𝑣 = 1005 × 1.2
= 1206𝑗. 𝑚3 𝑘
Recommended minimum number of air changes per hour of a room is 6.
• Tin>> inside temperature: comfortable indoor temperature is 25 degree celsius.
• Tout>> average outside winter temperature in Bloemfontein 10 degree celsius.
Volume of the room:
𝑉 =𝑙×𝑏×ℎ
=6×5×3
= 90𝑚2
Rate of heat loss due to ventilation:
𝐶𝑣×𝑉×𝑁×𝑇
𝑅=
3600
1206×90×6×(25−10)
=
3600
= 2713.5𝑊
The rate at which useful energy is delivered:
𝑄 = 𝐴𝐼Ʈ𝑎
Where:
• Q= useful energy output
• A= area of the collector
• I= solar radiation incident on the collector(W/m^2)
• Ʈ= transmissivity of the glass
• a= absorptivity of the collector surface
The latitude of Bloemfontein is 29.121 degrees Celsius.
Tilt angle average recommendation in South Africa is: 10 degrees +29.1=39.1
Declination angle on the 21st of June.
360
𝛿 = 23.45𝑆𝑖𝑛 (365 (1817284))
= 24.44°
Solar radiation incidence = 90 latitude angle + declination angle+ tilt angle
𝐼 = 90 − 𝐿 + 𝛿 + 𝑇
= 90 − 29.1 + 24.44 + 39.1
= 124.44°
Solar incidence= 1370 ∗ cos(124.44°)
= −774.8°
South Africa's average solar radiation ranges between 4.5and 6.5 KWh/square meter per
day
4.5 + 6.5
= 5.5𝐾𝑊ℎ/𝑚2
2
Assuming the efficiency of a solar collector to be 65% and the power output of 3000W.
Area of collector:
3000
𝐴= × 0.65
5500
= 3.545𝑚2
Hence the rate at which useful energy is different:
𝑄 = 𝐴𝐼Ʈ𝑎
= 3.545 × 774.8 × 0.91 × 0.95
= 2324.5𝑊
Silicate bass single pare:
SHGC=0.86 (data from manufacturer)
Heat gained through window:
𝑄 = 𝑆𝐺𝐴
• Q=heat gain
• S=solar gain factor
• G=irradiance
• A=area
𝑄 = 𝑆𝐺𝐴
= 0.86 × 5500 × 2
= 9460𝑊
Table 2. Appliances' description
Appliance Brand Name Wattage Price
170L Fridge KIC 230 W R4 000
25L Geyser AO Smith Xpress 3000 W R2 640
2-Plate Stove oven Ottimo 3200 W R1 200
Microwave Russel Hobbs 700 W R1 190
Iron Russel Hobbs 2000 W R420
Kettle Essentials 2000 W R150
LED Lights Radiant 11 W R35
WiFi Router Mercusys 10 W R260
Laptop Charger HP 65 W R500
Phone Charger Samsung 20 W R100
Washing Machine Defy 2200 W R 6500
Figure 4. Canadian Solar Hiku 380W (Anon., 2024)
Table 3: Solar panel specifications
Brand Canadian Solar Hiku 380W
Maximum Power Output 380 W
Type Monocrystalline
Efficiency 20.5
Size 1.765𝑚 x 1.048𝑚 (1.85𝑚2
Cost R2 673
Building requirements:
1. House measurements:
Length=6m
Breath =5m
Height =3m
3 windows of same measurements
2. Each house will consist out of:
A single bedroom
Bathroom
Open plan kitchen and living room
Figure 5: Schematic of house
Roof Area= 𝑙 × 𝑤
= 6×5
= 30𝑚2
The area of a single solar panel is 1.85 𝑚2 ,
Therefore six solar panels will take up 11.1 𝑚2 , or 11.2 𝑚2 (adjusting for 0.02 mm gap
between the solar panels).
14. Findings
The calculation results show seasonal fluctuations in solar energy availability, as well as the
importance of optimising the design and orientation of solar thermal systems to maximise
efficiency. Specifically:
Summer: The system functions ideally, with increased heat gains and energy delivery.
Winter: Despite the lower capacity, the system can still provide significant energy with proper
insulation and an optimal tilt angle.
These findings highlight the importance of seasonal modifications in system parameters and
imply that further advancements in glazing materials and ventilation management could lead
to improved year-round performance.
The overall effectiveness of the solar thermal system was found to be closely connected to
the climatic circumstances, indicating that local climate data should be considered in the
design and installation of such systems.
Figure 6: Orientation of solar panel
As we are in the southern hemisphere the best place where our solars could face is at the
north, which is the direction of the equator where the sun rays hit at its maximum rate
A fixed mounted solar system should be at an angle that is equal to the latitude of the
location. An angle of 28.25 works well in Bloemfontein and the whole of South Africa,
especially when there are no big buildings around, shades or trees. The angle of the roof
has less impact than the direction where the roof faces. When the roof angle is tilted to the
south that means less power but when tilted to the north at an angle of latitude there will be
much power stored.
Parameter Value Units
Annual global insolation
(irradiation) on the horizontal 2098.75 kWh / m 2 per year
surface
Tilt angle for maximum annual
28.25
isolation
Maximum annual global
insolation at an optimum tilt 2737.5 kWh / m 2 per year
angle
Daily insolation in December at
7.5 kWh / m 2 per day
an optimum tilt angle
Daily isolation in July at an
3.5 kWh / m 2 per day
optimum tilt angle
Ratio of direct/diffuse daily
2.44 %
insolation
Peak irradiance in December at
1100 W / m2
on optimum tilt angle
Peak irradiance in July at an
650 W / m2
optimum tilt angle
Maximum annual global insolation at an optimum tilt angle= 𝐴𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑑𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 × 365
= 5.75 × 365
= 2098.75 𝑘𝑊ℎ/𝑚2
Optimum tilt angle for maximum annual insolation: 𝑀𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑚 𝑑𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑦 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 × 365
= 7.5 × 365
= 2737.5 𝑘𝑊ℎ/𝑚2
Latitude angle in King Edward 24, Willows, Bloemfontein = - 29.121˚ (Anon., 2024)
Winter:
Optimum tilt angle = 𝐿 – 15° ............................................................................. (1.5)
= 29.121° − 15°
= 14.12166˚
Summer:
Optimum tilt angle = 𝐿 + 15° ............................................................................. (1.6)
= 29.121 + 15
= 44.1215˚
Figure 7. Seasonally adjusted solar panel tilt angles for Bloemfontein, South Africa
(Robinson, 2024)
13+34+44+22
Average Optimum Tilt Angle=
4
= 28.25°
Ratio of Direct/Diffuse daily insolation:
December
• Total Daily Insolation: 7.23 kWh/m²/day (Robinson, 2024)
• Direct Insolation: 75% of 7.23 kWh/m²/day = 5.423 kWh/m²/day
• Diffuse Insolation: 25% of 7.23 kWh/m²/day = 1.8075 kWh/m²/day
5.625
• Direct to Diffuse Ratio: ≈3
1.875
July
• Total Daily Insolation: 4.5 kWh/m²/day (Robinson, 2024)
• Direct Insolation: 65% of 4.5 kWh/m²/day = 2.958 kWh/m²/day
• Diffuse Insolation: 35% of 4.5 kWh/m²/day = 1.575 kWh/m²/day
2.275
• Direct to Diffuse Ratio: ≈ 1.88
1.225
1.88+3
∴ Avg =
2
= 2.44
Types of solar panels:
Monocrystalline
Polycrystalline
Thin film
Transparent
Momentum solar
Monocrystalline is the best solar panel currently because they are more efficient than the
other solars. They are made from a single silicon crystal.
15. Results
Table 4: Appliances energy consumption per day
Energy consumption
List of Appliances
(kWh/day)
170L Fridge 2.76
25L Geyser 1.5
Stove (2 Plate)/Oven 3.2
Iron 0.4
Microwave 0.14
Kettle 1
Lights (LED) 1.375
WiFi Router 0.24
Computer Charger 0.52
Phone Charger 0.08
Washing Machine 1.1
Table 5: Output Energy and number of solar panels
Parameter Result
Total Daily Power Consumption 12.315 kWh
System Size 2.24 kW
Number of Solar panels 6
16. Discussion
• During the course of this project, several considerations emerged that future
researchers and practitioners should take into account:
• Solar Panel Efficiency: Depending on their type, positioning, and quality, solar panels
can have a wide range of efficiencies. Optimal orientation to maximise exposure to
sunshine is critical, especially considering seasonal fluctuations in Bloemfontein.
• Energy Storage: Efficient energy storage technologies are critical for maintaining a
continuous power supply, particularly during periods of low sunlight. Battery capacity
and longevity should be carefully chosen based on expected energy consumption.
• Cost vs. Sustainability: Balancing the initial investment in high-quality sustainable
materials and technologies with the long-term benefits and savings is essential.
Future projects should consider conducting a detailed cost-benefit analysis to justify
expenditures on sustainable options.
• Regulatory Compliance: It is critical that renewable energy installations follow local
construction norms and laws. Understanding these standards early in the planning
process will help you avoid delays and extra expenditures.
• Maintenance and Durability: To ensure long-term performance, solar panels and
accompanying equipment must be maintained on a regular basis. Future study could
focus on creating maintenance schedules that reduce expenses while increasing
system longevity.
• Community Impact: It is critical to consider how the larger community will react to
solar-powered student housing. Engaging with local stakeholders early on can
increase project approval and highlight extra benefits such as reduced environmental
impact.
17. Conclusion
The evaluation of solar irradiance, tilt angle optimisation, and economic feasibility in
Bloemfontein, King Edward Road 24, Willows, reveals substantial potential for residential
solar panel systems. The region's abundant sunlight, along with rising electricity bills,
presents an ideal setting for solar energy adoption as the Peak Sun Hours ranges from 5.3
to 6.1.
The findings imply that installing a solar panel system can result in significant energy cost
reductions, reduced dependency on the grid, and environmental benefits. However, early
investment costs, government incentives, and long-term system performance all need to be
carefully examined.
18. Recommendations
Based on the results of this investigation, the following recommendations are proposed:
• Optimal System Design: To maximise energy production, install solar panels at the
optimal tilt angle and orientation.
• Solar panel installation: Bloemfontein residents are encouraged to consider solar
panel systems as a feasible choice for lowering electricity bills and contributing to a
more sustainable future.
• Government support: Encourage government policies and incentives for solar energy
adoption, such as feed-in tariffs, tax rebates, and financing choices.
• Additional research: Continuously monitor changes in solar irradiance, technological
improvements, and economic conditions to optimise solar panel installations.
By implementing these recommendations, Bloemfontein can accelerate the transition to
clean and renewable energy sources, improving energy security and reducing environmental
impact.
19. References
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Anon., 2024. 380 Watt Mono Canadian Solar Panel. [Online]
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Anon., 2024. Solar radiation in Bloemfontein. [Online]
Available at: [Link]
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Anon., 2024. South African Region’s Year-Round Sunshine. [Online]
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Anon., n.d. Azimuth angle. [Online]
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