How to conduct shadow analysis without using expensive simulation tools?

Mathematical Formula: Shadow Length Calculation

If the shadow creating object is in East-West direction of proposed Solar PV array location, below formula should be used:

Shadow Length (m) = H (m) x [Sin (Azimuth) / Tan (Altitude) ]

Please note that, if the shadow creating object is on East side of proposed solar PV array location, consider morning time Azimuth and Altitude angles. If the shadow creating object is on West side of the proposed solar PV array location, consider evening time Azimuth and Altitude angles.

If the shadow creating object is in North-South direction of proposed Solar PV array location, below formula should be used:

Shadow Length (m) = H (m) x [Cos (Azimuth) / Tan (Altitude) ]

Please note that if the shadow creating object is in North-South direction of proposed solar PV array location, consider both morning and evening time Azimuth and Altitude angles.

Note: Azimuth and Altitude angles for a particular location and time can be taken from freely available websites such as: www.sunposition.info or https://power.larc.nasa.gov

To understand this better let’s have a look at few examples on next pages