Optimum Angle For Solar Panels
When investing in a solar panel system, one of the most important factors that affect your energy generation and efficiency is the best angle for solar panels. The angle, or tilt, at which panels are installed, often calculated in degrees based on geographic latitude and seasonal changes, directly affects how much sunlight (solar radiation) they capture which in turn determines how much energy your system will generate throughout the year.
In the UK, the ideal angle is usually around 35 degrees.
| Region | Recommended Tilt Angle |
|---|---|
| London & South East | 35.9° |
| South West England | 35.8° |
| Northern England | 37.2° |
| Wales | 36.3° |
| Northern Ireland | 37.2° |
| Scotland | 37.8° |
Solar Panel Efficiency
Solar panel efficiency is key to maximising energy production and reducing your bills. The optimal solar panel angle and orientation are crucial in determining how well a solar panel system works. Solar panels produce the most energy when they are facing directly at the sun, so the tilt angle and direction are important factors in the installation.
Understanding solar panel efficiency is important for homeowners and businesses looking to invest in renewable energy solutions. There are many factors that can affect solar panel efficiency including the type of panel, the angle of installation and the amount of sunlight the panel receives. Of all the types of panels monocrystalline panels are the most efficient so are the most popular choice for solar panel systems.
The best solar panel angle will vary depending on your location and time of year which is why you need to consider these factors when installing a solar panel system. A well designed solar panel system will save you a lot of energy and reduce your reliance on non renewable energy sources and help towards a more sustainable future.
Why Does Solar Panel Angle Matter?
Solar panels work by converting light energy from the sun into electricity. The more direct the suns rays hit the panels the higher the solar panel output. That’s why the solar panel angle (also known as the tilt angle or roof angle) is so important. An optimal solar panel angle will give you the highest output possible and reduce your bills and increase the efficiency of your renewable energy system.
Best Angle and Orientation for Solar Panels in the UK
South Facing Roof
In the UK (northern hemisphere) the best orientation for solar panels is a south facing roof with the panels pointing due south. This direction gets the most sunlight throughout the year and will give you the highest output and efficiency.
Optimal Tilt Angle
The best tilt angle for solar panels in the UK is between 30° and 40° from horizontal depending on your location. For example London and the South East is 36° and Scotland is 38°.
Flat Roofs
Panels on a flat roof require a mounting system to achieve the best angle. This flexibility allows you to set the ideal tilt regardless of the roof’s original pitch. Flat roofs are commonly used in commercial settings and have benefits for optimal panel angles but also come with structural considerations such as weight restrictions and the need for proper installation techniques to avoid leaks.
Seasonal Adjustments for Maximum Solar Generation
The sun’s position in the sky changes with the seasons so the best angle for solar panels, determined by the pitch of the roof, also changes:
Summer: The sun is higher; a tilt angle about 15° less than your latitude is optimal.
Winter: The sun is lower; a tilt angle about 15° more than your latitude captures more sunlight.
For most UK homes a fixed angle (30–40°) is practical and effective year round especially as many roofs are already within this range. Adjustable mounting systems can be used for those who want maximum efficiency and can change the tilt angle seasonally.
What If My Roof Isn’t South Facing?
East or West facing roofs: Panels facing east or west will generate about 15–30% less energy than south facing panels. You may need to install more panels to meet high energy demands. East west solar panel installations can optimise space and spread energy output throughout the day making them a viable option for many roofing setups.
North facing roofs: These will generate the least energy – about half as much as south facing panels. However high efficiency monocrystalline panels and larger arrays can help compensate for non optimal roof angles. Roofs facing exactly north are particularly impractical for solar installations due to poor energy generation.* Panels facing southeast, northeast or northwest: These will generate slightly less energy but modern solar technology and careful system design can still make them viable options. North east or north west facing roofs can be suitable for solar panels as part of a larger installation.
Solar Panel Technology and Efficiency
The type of solar panel you choose also affects the power output as the direction of solar panels has a big impact on the amount of power that can be harvested:
Monocrystalline panels: Highest efficiency (18–24%) and best for small roofs or non ideal orientations.
Polycrystalline panels: Slightly less efficient (13–16%) and require more panels to achieve the same output.
Other Factors Affecting Solar Panel Output
Shading: Even the best angle won’t help if panels are shaded by trees or buildings.
Panel quality: High efficiency panels generate more electricity even at non optimal tilt angles.
Solar battery: Storing excess energy with a solar battery increases your system’s efficiency and energy independence especially for off grid systems.
Ground mounted systems: Ground mounted solar panels allow for more customisation of angle and direction and can generate more energy. However they are more expensive and may require more planning permission than rooftop installations.
Planning Permission and Installation Considerations
Most solar panel installations in the UK don’t require planning permission but always check with your local authority especially for listed buildings or installations in conservation areas.
When installing solar panels it’s important to consider the optimum tilt angle which is often calculated in degrees. For example adding or subtracting degrees from your latitude can help determine the ideal tilt to get maximum solar exposure throughout the year.
Key Takeaways for the Best Solar Panel Angle
The best angle for solar panels in the UK is 30–40° south.
East or west facing panels will generate slightly less energy, north facing panels will generate the least.
Use high efficiency monocrystalline panels to maximise output especially on non optimal roof angles.
Consider a solar battery for more energy independence and to get the most out of your solar generation.
Adjustable mounting systems allow for seasonal tilt changes but are not necessary for most homeowners.* In the southern hemisphere solar panels should face north, in the northern hemisphere south.
In the UK the sun is in the south during the day so south facing panels are best.
The ideal orientation and tilt for solar panels can vary greatly around the world, for example in Africa, Mexico and Spain.
A perfectly south facing solar panel is zero degrees which is the optimal angle for maximum sunlight.
By considering the best angle for solar panels and your property’s unique characteristics you can get the most out of your solar panel system and save on your electricity bills and help the environment.
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