Optimal Sun Angle For Solar Panels

Depending on where you live the best angle at which you should install solar panels will change.

Optimal sun angle for solar panels.

To get the best out of your photovoltaic panels you need to angle them towards the sun. The optimum angle varies throughout the year depending on the seasons and your location and this calculator shows the difference in sun height on a month by month basis. Since solar panels are more productive when the sun s rays are perpendicular to their surfaces the certainly best orientation is the one directly true south azimuth angle 180. This solar angle calculator tells you the optimum angle to get the best out of your system.

Here two simple methods for calculating approximate solar panel angle according to your latitude. The angle of your solar array is an important factor in maximizing your energy production. Calculating the optimal solar panel angle. As a general rule of thumb keep in mind that the panels need to be more vertical during winter to face the lower sun directly and more tilted towards the ground during summer to face the higher sun.

This is because it s based on the average position of the sun over your property. On the contrary in the countries of the southern hemisphere such as south africa and australia the best orientation is true north. Calculating the ideal angle for your solar panels is not that difficult. For example if you are seeking to maximise solar generation during winter months be it for an off grid system or higher energy consumption levels you would ideally want to angle your panels at a greater tilt for maximum exposure to the low winter sun.

As a rule of thumb solar panels should be more vertical during winter to gain most of the low winter sun and more tilted during summer to maximize the output. Most solar arrays are installed at a tilt.