What does the term "sun hours" refer to in the context of PV energy output?

The term "sun hours" refers specifically to the hours during which solar irradiance reaches a level of 1000 W/m², which is often considered the standard for peak solar energy production. This measurement indicates the intensity of sunlight that can generate maximum power output from photovoltaic (PV) cells.

When solar panels are exposed to this level of irradiance, they can operate at their optimal efficiency for energy conversion. This concept is critical for understanding the performance of PV systems, as it directly correlates with the amount of energy the system can produce at its peak capability.

In the context of solar energy and PV systems, knowing the number of sun hours helps installers and energy planners estimate the expected energy production over a specific period. This information plays a vital role in system design, financial modeling, and determining the feasibility of solar energy projects.