The abundant sources of solar energy in Southeast Asia not only give life to plants, animals and people, but also allow us to install and take advantage of the “power” of solar panels. The intensity of the sun is usually measured in 'radiation levels'. This radiation level will determine the amount of electricity a solar panel can generate

In this article, we describe how solar radiation levels vary at different locations and times. This can help you understand why it is advisable to install a solar panel on your own roof.

Location

The most important factor affecting solar radiation is geographical location. Places near the equator (e.g. Thailand and Vietnam), with high altitudes above sea level (e.g., the Himalayas) or with little rainfall (e.g., deserts) will often have high levels of radiation. Therefore, Southeast Asia, with its location near the equator, is an excellent place to install solar panels. However, there will be some differences between the regions of the two countries. For example, southern Vietnam is sunnier than the north, inland Thailand is sunnier than the coast.

In contrast, Western Europe is much less sunny than Southeast Asia due to its location far from the equator. However, that does not mean that Western Europe cannot use solar energy. Even cold and dark weather like in Germany is “enough” with the most modern solar panels!

Seasonal variation

Solar panels generate less electricity when it is cloudy and rainy, so the power output produced will be lower during the rainy season in Southeast Asia. However, the difference in the amount of electricity produced is very small, since even during the rainy season, a significant amount of sun still passes through the cloud cover. And after all, it doesn't always rain. For example, the difference in radiation between July and March in Ho Chi Minh City is only about 25%.

Daily Oscillation

Solar panels can only generate electricity in the presence of sunlight. Therefore, electricity will not be generated at night and the production process peaks when the sun reaches its highest in the middle of the day. However, installing backup batteries to store energy from solar panels can ensure that you have enough power for your needs.

Even if customers choose to install batteries, SmartSolar often advises customers to remain connected to the power grid, just in case the battery runs out of power.