Techno-Economic Optimization of Solar Panel Installations: Balancing Thermal Performance and Economic Viability

Abstract As solar energy gains prominence, optimizing panel configurations for efficiency and cost-effectiveness is crucial. This study examines the impact of installation height and tilt angle on thermal performance, power output, and structural constraints. Using computational models, the study optimized height and tilt to enhance cooling and minimize costs. Increased heights improved air circulation, reducing cell temperatures and boosting efficiency through passive cooling. Higher tilt angles enhanced heat dissipation via air turbulence but also raised wind loading, necessitating stronger, costlier support structures. The optimal configuration of 0.165 meters height and 25.022° tilt balanced efficiency and structural demands. This setup achieved a Levelized Cost of Energy (LCoE) of $ 0.07/kWh, an ROI of 16.3 %, and a payback period of 6.25 years. Compared to a non-optimized setup (7.5 meters height, 75° tilt), this reduced LCoE by 42 %, improved ROI by 60 %, and shortened the payback period by 37.5 %. The findings highlight the importance of tailored height and tilt to maximize efficiency while controlling costs. Future research should explore different installation surfaces and climate conditions to further refine the balance between performance and cost.