What is the energy output over 4 hours at an irradiance of 500W/m²?

To calculate the energy output over four hours at an irradiance of 500W/m², you can use a straightforward formula that relates power, irradiance, and time.

First, recognize that energy output is expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and power is given in watts (W). To convert watts to kilowatts, divide by 1000.

For this scenario, the irradiance is 500 W/m². If we assume a certain area of solar panels, the output can be calculated based on the total power produced. For instance, if you have 1 m² of panels:

1. Calculate Power Output:

   • 500 W/m² = 0.5 kW/m² (since 500 W = 0.5 kW when divided by 1000).

2. Calculate Total Energy Output Over Time:

   • To find the energy output over the specified time (4 hours), multiply the power output by the number of hours:
   • Energy (kWh) = Power (kW) x Time (hours).
   • Therefore, Energy = 0.5 kW x 4 hours = 2 kWh.

Given these calculations, the energy output