What does a measurement of 5 peak sun hours per day refer to?

A measurement of 5 peak sun hours per day refers to insolation or irradiation. This term describes the amount of solar energy received on a specific area over a designated period, usually measured in kilowatt-hours per square meter per day (kWh/m²/day).

The concept of peak sun hours is crucial for understanding solar energy potential in a particular location. It represents the equivalent number of hours per day when solar irradiance averages 1,000 watts per square meter, which is the standard measure for solar panels to determine energy production capacity. Therefore, when you have 5 peak sun hours, it means that the solar energy reaching a specific area is such that it equates to 5 hours of full sunlight at this intensity.

This measurement is vital for sizing solar energy systems, as it helps determine how much energy can be expected from solar panels, which in turn influences the design and economics of solar installations. Knowing the insolation levels allows installers and homeowners to evaluate whether solar power is a viable option for generating electricity based on geographic conditions.