Performance analysis of optimising tilt and azimuth angles of residential photovoltaics without storage

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems represent a promising solution for the ongoing transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. However, their performance is highly dependent on the tilt and azimuth angles of the panels. Therefore, this research aims to determine the optimal tilt and azimuth angles for PV systems and to analyse their energy generation and consumption patterns and economic performance. Adelaide, South Australia, is used as the reference location for modelling PV systems to meet residential energy demand using the Transient System Simulation (TRNSYS), and this software allows for adjustment of configuration parameters and capacities of PV systems. The annual hourly electrical load profiles for a typical household in South Australia were derived by downscaling publicly accessible data on residential electricity consumption in 2020 from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). The annual, seasonal, and monthly optimisation of the PV position configuration found that the optimal tilt angles vary between 0° and 60°, while the optimal azimuth angle consistently remains at 0°, indicating that PV systems should face due north. Although PV systems can meet daytime electrical demand, their overall efficiency is constrained by the mismatch between the PV generation and the load profile distribution. As a result, the grid must meet electricity demand outside solar generation hours, with the maximum PV self-sufficiency reaching 36 % for a 10.32 kWp system. Although the payback period for PV systems exceeds the typical lifespan of 20 years under two tariff structures, as evidenced by the final negative cumulative net present value (NPV), the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) of a 5.16 kWp PV system remains below the minimum electricity price of 31.63¢/kWh, highlighting the long-term economic benefits of using PV in residential buildings compared to full grid reliance.