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Journal of Solar Energy Research Updates

Articles

Vol. 12 (2025)

Sustainable Energy Solutions for Himachal Pradesh: A Comparative Study of Solar Panel Technologies

DOI
https://doi.org/10.31875/2410-2199.2025.12.06
Submitted
June 20, 2025
Published
2025-06-19

Abstract

The pursuit of sustainable energy solutions is critical in regions like Himachal Pradesh, India, where environmental preservation and energy access must go hand in hand. This study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of two solar panel technologies—fixed tilted and two-axis rotating rooftop systems—under the state's on-grid rooftop solar scheme supported by central and state subsidies. Using detailed simulations in PVsyst, the research evaluates the systems’ energy efficiency, economic feasibility, environmental implications, and policy alignment. Results show that while two-axis rotating panels offer moderately higher energy yield (6.23 kWh/day vs. 4.78 kWh/day), fixed tilted panels are economically more viable, exhibiting a shorter payback period (1.8 years vs. 2.3 years) and lower installation and maintenance costs. These findings endorse fixed tilted panels as a more cost-effective and sustainable solution for residential solar adoption in the region.

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