What is the orientation of a solar panel?

The orientation of a solar panel is also called its azimuth, which is the horizontal angle compared to true north (0 degrees). North-facing rooftops are traditionally considered unsuitable for solar panels in the UK, but this isn’t necessarily the case anymore - solar panel technology has come a long way in the past couple of decades.

Why is solar panel orientation important?

Your solar panel orientation is an important part of the sizing of photovoltaic and solar thermal systems. Since solar power produced is directly proportional to the orientation of solar panels, the right orientation can not only maximize solar power but also decreases the cost of the project.

Why does solar panel orientation and angle matter in a solar power system?

Prior to understanding why solar panel orientation and angle matter in a solar power system, we need to know how a solar panel collects energy from the sun. Solar panel cells only collect a specific wavelength during absorbing radiant energy from the sun.

What is the optimal tilt angle of photovoltaic solar panels?

The optimal tilt angle of photovoltaic solar panels is that the surface of the solar panel faces the Sun perpendicularly. However, the angle of incidence of solar radiation varies during the day and during different times of the year.

Which direction should solar panels be oriented?

To take maximum advantage of solar radiation, it is advisable to orient the solar panels towards the south if we are in the northern hemisphere and the north if we are in the southern hemisphere.

Why should solar panels be oriented correctly?

Since solar power produced is directly proportional to the orientation of solar panels, the right orientation can not only maximize solar power but also decreases the cost of the project. The orientation is composed of two parameters: direction and tilt angle.