Solar in North Korea

Solar Energy in Tŏkch’ŏn

Tŏkch’ŏn is located at 39.8°N, 126.3°E in North Korea. Here's what solar energy looks like for homeowners in this area.

Annual Irradiance

1,667

kWh/m²

Peak Sun Hours

3.9

hrs/day

3 kWp Output

4,302

kWh/year

Solar Score

78

/ 100

What does this mean for your roof?

Tŏkch’ŏn receives approximately 1,667 kWh/m² of solar irradiance per year, which translates to 3.9 peak sun hours per day. This is excellent for residential solar energy production.

With a solar score of 78/100, Tŏkch’ŏn ranks #18 of 118 cities in North Korea for solar potential in our atlas.

A typical 3 kWp residential solar system (7 panels) in Tŏkch’ŏn would produce approximately 4,302 kWh per year, sized for the average household in North Korea.

The best months for solar production in Tŏkch’ŏn are May – August, while the lowest production occurs during November – January. Being in the northern hemisphere, south-facing roofs capture the most annual sunlight.

Estimated savings in Tŏkch’ŏn

System Cost

₩3,510,000

3 kWp, before incentives

Annual Savings

~₩317,000

At ₩126/kWh

Payback Period

~11 years

Before local incentives

25-Year Net Result

~₩6,620,000

Savings minus system cost

These are approximate figures based on a standardized household consumption of 5,000 kWh/year and an estimated electricity rate of ₩126/kWh in North Korea. Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost — check current subsidy, tax-credit, or VAT programs in North Korea, as these can meaningfully shorten the payback period.

Figures are estimates based on typical system assumptions and the latest available electricity-price and billing data for North Korea. Actual costs, tariffs, net-metering rules, and incentives vary by utility and change over time — confirm with a local installer or energy authority before making decisions.

How solar billing works in North Korea

Net billing

Exports and imports are priced separately, usually at different rates.

In North Korea, rooftop solar appears to fall under a net-billing-style approach, where the energy you export and the energy you import are typically valued separately rather than simply cancelling out. Exports are often credited at a rate that may be lower than the retail price you pay for imported power, which generally rewards using your own generation as it is produced. The precise export and import prices vary by region and utility and change over time, so they should be confirmed locally.

Get your exact numbers

Our calculator uses NASA satellite data for your precise location — not city-level estimates. Free, instant, no signup.

Solar tips for Tŏkch’ŏn homeowners

Face panels south

In the northern hemisphere, south-facing panels capture the most annual sunlight. East-west split systems also work well.

Optimal tilt angle

For Tŏkch’ŏn, the energy-optimal panel tilt is about 38° from horizontal.

Size your system right

For the average household in North Korea, a 3 kWp system (7 panels) covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.

Check local incentives

Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost of residential solar — check current subsidy, tax-credit, and VAT programs with your energy authority in North Korea.

Gear to prepare for solar

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Solar in other North Korea cities

Frequently asked questions about solar in Tŏkch’ŏn

How much do solar panels cost in Tŏkch’ŏn?

A typical 3 kWp residential solar system in Tŏkch’ŏn, North Korea costs approximately ₩3,510,000 before incentives — this is an estimate based on typical regional pricing. Local incentives such as subsidies, tax credits, or VAT exemptions may reduce the upfront cost; check current programs in North Korea.

How are solar exports valued under net billing in North Korea?

Under a net-billing-style scheme, exports from your system in North Korea are typically bought at one rate while the electricity you import is charged at another, and the two are usually not the same. Because the export credit may be lower than the retail import price, consuming your own solar power directly tends to be the most valuable option. Actual rates vary by region and utility and can change, so confirm the current figures with a local installer or energy authority.

How much electricity do solar panels produce in Tŏkch’ŏn?

A 3 kWp solar system in Tŏkch’ŏn produces approximately 4,302 kWh per year, based on 3.9 peak sun hours per day and 1,667 kWh/m² annual irradiance.

What is the solar panel payback period in Tŏkch’ŏn?

Based on North Korea's electricity rate of ₩126/kWh, a 3 kWp system in Tŏkch’ŏn pays for itself in approximately 11 years before incentives. After that, the electricity it generates is essentially free for the remaining panel lifespan of 25+ years.

Which direction should solar panels face in Tŏkch’ŏn?

In Tŏkch’ŏn, panels should ideally face south since it's in the northern hemisphere. The optimal tilt angle is about 38° from horizontal.

How many solar panels do I need for my home in Tŏkch’ŏn?

A typical household in North Korea uses the equivalent of a 3 kWp system (7 panels). With 3.9 peak sun hours per day in Tŏkch’ŏn, this covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.

Learn more about solar energy