Determining the ratio of power output to incident sunlight on the surface of a photovoltaic panel quantifies its performance. For instance, a panel receiving 1000 watts of sunlight per square meter and producing 200 watts of electrical power has a 20% ratio. This metric is crucial for comparing different panel technologies and predicting system output.
Accurately assessing this ratio is vital for system design, performance prediction, and economic analysis of solar energy projects. Historical advancements in materials science and manufacturing processes have led to significant improvements in this area, driving down costs and increasing the viability of solar energy as a mainstream power source. Understanding this metric allows consumers and investors to make informed decisions about solar energy investments.
