The development of a wind and solar power calculator for use within the private sector

Abstract

[Abstract]: This dissertation is the documentation and design of a power calculator for use within the private sector. A power calculator is a way of determining an expected output from a given energy source over a specific time. This calculator is focused on power produced from solar and wind energies. We live in exponential times, both in terms of population growth and energy consumption. A nation is defined by this consumption. As the primary sources of fuelling power stations dwindle, and as these fuels affect the earth, it is becoming more and more important to find alternative forms of energy. The development of an energy calculator is used to develop an assessment of the viability of implementing specific power sources. The major feature of this calculator is to determine factors such as power output, sizing and cost. An individual calculator needs to be developed for both solar and wind energy. Although these two forms of energy provide cleaner and more sustainable options than the major energy forms currently in use, they struggle to compete across all fields. Both energy forms are more expensive and cannot operate one hundred per cent of the time as there are restrictions on where and when they can work. As a prediction, the calculator can only give - at best, a monthly representation, as weather conditions will change daily. It will also not be completely accurate, though the calculator does give a real value for expected power generation. The calculator is limited by this lack of accuracy. As a monthly representation it does give a solid representation of a specific model of either a solar or wind source.