In solar airfield ground lighting (AGL), performance depends on the balance between two main components: the battery and the solar panel. While batteries store energy for operation, the solar panel is responsible for daily recharge.

A properly sized solar panel ensures the battery is replenished even during periods of low irradiance. If panel capacity is insufficient, batteries may gradually discharge, leading to reduced system reliability.

Assessment of panel sizing typically includes:

🔹 Solar resource data (e.g., PVGIS)
🔹 Energy balance simulations under worst-case conditions
🔹 Panel and battery sizing aligned with operational needs

It’s also important to note that different manufacturers use different types of solar panels—not all panels provide the same energy yield. Solar Airfield Lighting Association advises airports to pay attention to panel selection when evaluating system design.