Want to take the most out of your solar panels? Your panels’ angle and orientation are the prime factors responsible for it. Let’s dive into the details of the ideal solar panel setup, how it varies by location, and how to optimize your system for maximum energy generation.
Key takeaways
The more a solar panel faces the sun, the more sunlight it can absorb. This is because sunlight striking the panel perpendicularly is concentrated, maximizing the energy captured by the photovoltaic cells. When the sun’s rays hit the panel at an angle, the same amount of sunlight is spread over a larger area, reducing the energy absorbed.
The sun’s path across the sky depends on where you live. In the Northern Hemisphere, the sun travels closer to the southern horizon. It may stay higher or lower in the sky depending on the season, but it still tends to the south. In the Southern Hemisphere, it works the other way around.
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, turn your panels south, if in the Southern – north.
So in most cases, the optimal orientation for solar panels is to face them directly south in the Northern Hemisphere or directly north in the Southern Hemisphere. This way solar panels receive the most direct sunlight throughout the whole year, especially during peak solar hours.
Good news: According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, over 80% of US homes are prime candidates for solar panels. While installers often find that two-thirds of single-family and small multi-family homes are ideal, the potential for solar adoption is huge.
While south-facing solar panels are the gold standard, don't worry if your roof isn't perfectly aligned. East-west setups are still fantastic, with only a 10-15% reduction in annual production compared to perfectly south-facing systems. The direction and angle of your roof rarely ruin the solar party. So, if you're considering going solar, don't let a less-than-ideal orientation hold you back.
North-facing solar panels are a long shot though. They see far less sunlight than other orientations, and the steeper the tilt, the worse they perform. While rare, there are exceptions. In California's sunny climate, with sky-high electricity prices, north-facing panels might be a blessing if there's no other option. As solar costs drop, north-facing systems might become more viable in certain cases. But for now, they're a risky bet.
Generally, the best angle for solar panels is equal to your latitude. For example, if you live at a latitude of 40 degrees north, your panels should be tilted at a 40-degree angle. Yet the sun’s position in the sky changes throughout the year, and so does the ideal angle – steeper in winter and flatter in summer. But climbing on the roof every season to change your panels’ tilt is too tiresome and not very effective, so you can just make it equal to the latitude and call it a day.
The U.S. Department of Energy says the sweet spot for south-facing solar panels is between 15 and 40 degrees. Lucky for us, most U.S. homes have roofs tilted between 18 and 34 degrees – right in the zone. Even if your roof's tilt isn't perfect, solar panels can still produce plenty of electricity to make it worth your while.
15-40 degrees — the best angle for solar panels in the US
Want to know the perfect angle for your solar panels? It's easy! Just find your latitude. In summer, tilt your panels 15 degrees less than your latitude. In winter, tilt them 15 degrees more. This simple adjustment helps maximize sunlight exposure throughout the year.
The vertical tilt of your solar panels is a big deal. It affects how much sunlight they catch and how much energy they produce. Here's what to consider:
Your roof's tilt is a major factor in solar panel performance. Steep roofs might limit the ideal tilt, requiring flat installations. Low-angled roofs need specialized racking to get the most out of your panels. Flush-mounting on low-angled roofs can reduce energy production. Consider your roof's tilt when planning your solar setup. A good solar installer can help you make the most of your roof's potential.
To maximize solar savings, tilt your panels to match your home's latitude. This angle, usually between 30 and 45 degrees, ensures your solar panels catch the most sunlight throughout the year. So, tilt your panels to the same angle as your latitude for optimal performance and savings.
The sun's position in the sky varies throughout the year, impacting solar panel performance. During winter in the northern hemisphere, the sun is lower, making it harder for panels to capture sunlight. To mitigate winter production dips, tilt your panels steeper than your latitude, around 60 degrees to maximize sunlight absorption. Installing your panels at an angle also allows snow to slide off, preventing accumulation and shading.
Solar panel systems are custom-designed to match your energy needs and roof space. Here’s what you need to assess:
A solar installer will likely request twelve months of electricity bills to understand your energy habits. This helps them size your solar system perfectly. If you're planning on using more electricity soon, let them know. That way, your system can handle the extra load.
Solar panels are typically rectangular and installed in groups. Vents, chimneys, and other roof features can limit how many you can fit. If space is tight, consider higher-efficiency panels that generate more power per square foot. This can help you maximize your solar output.
Trees, buildings, or chimneys can block sunlight and hurt your solar panels' performance. If you have space, install your panels in sunny spots. If some panels end up in the shade, micro-inverters or power optimizers can help minimize the impact.
Your rooftop solar might not be perfect, but it's a great start. If you have space, a ground-mounted system can take your solar power to the next level.
By optimizing direction and tilt, you can boost your annual energy production by 1-2%. Use the PV Watts tool from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to find the perfect angles for your location.
What’s your dream solar system?
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Years of experience in translation and a love of nature help Julia find the right words to encourage going solar. She joined the team in 2023 and is happy to make her contribution to a greener future.
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