What does the term "Irradiance" refer to in solar energy?

Irradiance is a fundamental concept in solar energy that refers to the power received from the sun per unit area. It is typically measured in watts per square meter (W/m²). This measurement is crucial for understanding how much solar energy a specific area is receiving at any given moment, which directly impacts the potential energy that can be harnessed for solar power generation.

Understanding irradiance helps in sizing solar panels, determining the efficiency of solar installations, and analyzing performance in different geographic locations and under varying weather conditions. It is essential for solar professionals to know how much energy they can expect from sunlight to maximize the effectiveness of solar energy systems.

The other choices refer to different aspects of solar energy technology. The angle of sunlight relates to solar gain but doesn't quantify energy. The temperature of solar cells is important for efficiency but is distinct from irradiance. The amount of energy stored typically pertains to battery systems rather than the immediate solar input. Each of these concepts is relevant in the solar energy field but does not define irradiance directly.