Answer :
The factor which is crucial for assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of a solar energy system is a) The amount of solar radiation received per day at the installation site.
Here's why this factor is the most important:
Solar Radiation: The amount of solar radiation received per day at the installation site determines how much energy the solar panels can capture. This is usually measured in kilowatt-hours per square meter per day (kWh/m²/day). The more solar radiation available, the more electricity the panels can produce.
Efficiency and Effectiveness: The efficiency of solar panels refers to how well they convert sunlight into electricity. Panels with higher efficiency will generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. However, even the most efficient panels need sufficient sunlight to produce the desired amount of energy.
Location-Specific: Solar radiation varies greatly depending on geographic location, weather patterns, and time of year. Hence, understanding the solar radiation at the installation site is crucial for designing a system that meets energy needs.
Practical Applications: For example, in San Diego, where the annual average solar yield is 5.7 kWh/m²/day, one can estimate the daily energy production of solar panels more accurately. If a household needs 8 kWh per day and uses panels that are 16% efficient, this information helps in calculating the required size and number of solar panels to install.
