Solar panels have become famous for turning sunlight into electricity. You can power your home or off-grid cabin with linked panels. The panels are placed to get the most sunlight possible and to face directly south in the northern hemisphere.
If you have installed solar panels at your home or cabin, you may wonder about their facing angle. What is the best-facing angle for solar panels to achieve maximum efficiency?
Below, we explore this question to help you maintain your solar panels. Keep reading.
Why Does Facing Angle Matter?
The facing angle of solar panels refers to the direction in which they are tilted or pointed. This angle directly affects the amount of sunlight that can be absorbed by the solar cells, thus impacting their energy output.
Ideally, solar panels should face directly toward the sun at all times to receive maximum sunlight exposure. However, this may not always be possible due to factors such as roof orientation, shade from nearby buildings or trees, and geographical location.
The Best Facing Angles
To help you determine the best-facing angle for your solar panels, we have listed the most effective angles below:
Horizontal Installation
Horizontal installation of solar panels is common, particularly on flat rooftops. This setup means the panels lay flat and parallel to the ground. They face directly upward, catching sunlight that falls vertically.
The installation is straightforward. However, it’s not always the most efficient. In regions with high solar altitudes, horizontal panels may miss out on capturing the full intensity of the sun’s rays.
Also, dust and snow can accumulate on horizontally installed panels. This further reduces their efficiency. Despite these factors, the simplicity of horizontal installation can make it a practical choice in certain scenarios.
Vertical Installation
Vertical installation involves setting up solar panels at an angle of 90 degrees, essentially standing them upright. This positioning is suitable for areas that receive low-angle winter sun.
This installation is also suited to where snow accumulation is a concern. Since the vertical panels are less likely to collect snow. They maintain better efficiency during the colder months.
In contrast to the horizontal installation, the vertical setup might not capture as much sun during peak summer months. However, it is an optimal choice for locations with high latitudes.
Vertical installation is also frequently preferred for larger solar farms and installations due to its ease of maintenance and cleaning. Despite these advantages, the exact facing angle should be tailored to the geographical and climatic conditions of the installation site for maximum energy yield.
Latitude Angle
The latitude angle is a highly effective orientation for solar panels. The concept is simple: the angle of your panels should match the latitude of your location.
This angle is optimal because it aligns the panels directly with the sun’s path. For instance, a location at a 30-degree latitude would have the panel’s angled at 30 degrees.
It’s important to note that the latitude angle changes when the seasons change. The sun’s path is higher in the sky in summer and lower in winter. To maintain maximum efficiency, adjusting the panel angles with the changing seasons is beneficial. However, the general rule of matching your latitude remains a good practice for fixed installations.
Seasonal Angle Adjustment
Seasonal adjustment of solar panels is used to optimize their energy output. As the Earth orbits the Sun, the position of the Sun in the sky changes. This means that the sunlight hits your panels at different angles during different times of the year. Adjusting the angle of your panels seasonally allows them to capture more sunlight.
During summer, when the sun is high in the sky, reducing the angle of your panels can help capture more light. On the other hand, in winter, the sun is lower in the sky. Increasing the angle will allow more direct sunlight to hit the panels. This method of adjustment ensures optimal energy production throughout the year.
However, these adjustments require time and effort. Also, it may not be possible for all types of solar installations. If you cannot adjust the angles seasonally, aligning your panels to your area’s latitude is a good general rule. Despite the changes in Sun’s position, this can ensure a reasonable level of efficiency all year round.
East/West Split
The East/West split technique for solar panels aims to capture sunlight throughout the entire day. Here’s how it works. The east-facing panels begin to absorb sunlight in the early morning. As the sun rises, these panels maximize their energy production. Concurrently, the west-facing panels are on standby.
As the sun moves across the sky towards the west, the east-facing panels see a decline in energy production. But this is where the west-facing panels come into play. They absorb the afternoon and early evening sunlight, maintaining a consistent energy output.
This split configuration can reduce the need for energy storage or grid reliance. It enables a more stable production of solar energy throughout the day. Remember, it’s essential to consider specific geographical and environmental factors when implementing this method for optimal results.
Multi-Angle
Multi-angle installation involves positioning solar panels at various angles. This setup is particularly beneficial in areas with high shading or cloud cover.
This configuration captures sunlight from various angles throughout the day by directing panels in multiple directions. It increases the chances of panels receiving direct sunlight even when the sun’s position changes or when shadows move.
This method can offset efficiency losses caused by less-than-ideal weather conditions. However, multi-angle installations may require more space and careful planning to avoid panels shading each other.
Make the Most of Your Solar Panels With the Right Facing Angle
The facing angle of solar panels plays a crucial role in maximizing their energy efficiency. By considering factors such as latitude, seasonality, and shading, you can determine the best-facing angle for your solar panel system.
Don’t hesitate to consult a professional installer for expert advice on finding the optimal facing angle for your specific location. With the right-facing angle, you can make the most out of your solar panels and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Did this article help you? If so, look at our other blog posts for more informative reads.
