When it comes to solar panel installation, two key factors stand out: direction and angle. As professional installers, our responsibility at PSUK is to ensure that your solar panels are positioned optimally for maximum energy yield. The placement of your panels hinges on both their orientation and tilt, which can vary depending on geographical location and regional climate conditions. Fortunately, modern solar photovoltaic panels are highly efficient, capable of harnessing energy even under less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

That said, there remains some debate regarding whether specific angles and orientations offer better energy production. While some argue that certain configurations provide a distinct advantage, others point out that the differences are often negligible.

Which Direction is Best for Solar Panels?

In the UK, the general consensus is that south-facing installations are optimal. The sun's path across the sky—rising in the east and setting in the west—means that southward-facing rooftops in the Northern Hemisphere capture sunlight more intensely over extended periods. However, don't despair if your roof doesn't face directly south. Solar panels can still perform efficiently when oriented toward other cardinal directions such as north, east, or west, provided they receive sufficient sunlight exposure.

Some experts suggest that the best direction depends heavily on where you live. For instance, households located south of the equator might benefit from north-facing panels. Additionally, factors like the time of year, seasonal variations, and the tilt of the panels also play crucial roles in determining the ideal direction.

Which Angle is Best for Solar Panels?

Unlike direction, there’s less controversy surrounding the ideal angle for solar panels. This angle depends significantly on your geographic location, the season, and your home’s latitude. Ideally, the panels should be positioned so they face the sun at midday when UV rays are strongest. However, achieving this perfect alignment isn’t always feasible due to shading issues and the inherent slope of the roof structure.

Key Factors Affecting the Optimal Solar Panel Angle

1. Season / Time of Year

In regions like the UK and Europe, which lie in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun dips lower in the sky during winter months. During this time, UV rays strike the Earth at a sharper angle, reducing overall sunlight intensity. Conversely, summers bring longer daylight hours and more direct sunlight, complicating efforts to determine the ideal panel angle. One potential solution is to install panels at a slightly steeper angle during winter—typically around five to fifteen degrees above your latitude—to compensate for the reduced sunlight.

2. Latitude

Your home’s latitude measures its angular distance from the equator. You can easily find your latitude using tools like Google Maps or GPS Coordinates. When deciding on the panel angle, installers frequently refer to the latitude to maximize energy output. For instance, homes located at a latitude of 25 degrees might achieve peak performance by positioning their panels at approximately the same angle.

To address winter conditions when the sun is lower in the sky, installers may increase the tilt further—adding about 15 degrees to the latitude. This adjustment ensures that the panels remain aligned with the sun’s trajectory even during colder months.

3. Roof Tilt

Every building has its unique architectural features, including the pitch of the roof. This natural slope can influence the final angle of your solar panels. For example, panels mounted on flat or steeply sloped roofs might require additional supports, such as specialized racking systems or brackets, to achieve the desired angle.

Which is More Important: Direction or Angle?

While the angle of your solar panels matters, particularly given the variability introduced by location and roof geometry, the direction tends to have a greater impact on overall efficiency. Panels facing east or west, rather than south, can still produce substantial amounts of electricity, provided they’re exposed to sunlight for several hours each day.

As conscientious owners of solar panels, there are steps you can take to enhance their performance. If you notice obstructions like tree branches casting shadows on your panels, contact a professional to clear them. Similarly, if your panels become dusty or coated with sea salt near coastal areas, scheduling regular cleaning sessions can keep them operating at full capacity.

Join the Solar Revolution!

If you're considering adopting solar technology, let Project Solar guide you through the process. Our skilled team will determine the perfect angle and orientation to ensure maximum energy production. Together, we can contribute to creating a greener future—whether you’re looking for a residential setup or a commercial-scale PV system for your business. All you need to do is reach out to us.

FAQs

Is it Worth Tilting Your Solar Panels?

Absolutely! Adjusting the tilt of your solar panels allows them to capture more sunlight, boosting energy generation.

Do Solar Panels Need to Be South-Facing?

No, south-facing isn’t mandatory. With proper planning, panels can face other directions while maintaining high efficiency, so long as they receive adequate sunlight exposure.

Can You Install North-Facing Solar Panels?

Indeed, north-facing panels can work effectively. Although they might not generate as much electricity as south-facing ones, they can still deliver reliable power output.

Can You Put Solar Panels on a Wall?

Certainly! Solar panels can be mounted on walls too. They can either be fixed parallel to the surface, angled upward, or installed as canopies. This alternative is especially useful for buildings whose roofs aren’t suited for solar panel integration. Keep in mind, though, that wall-mounted panels usually receive less sunlight than those placed on rooftops.