Introduction

When setting up a solar panel system, one of the most important decisions is the orientation and tilt of your panels. For those looking to maximize energy output, especially under a green tariff system, the standard recommendation is to orient your panels to the south, with a tilt angle of around 35 degrees, depending on your region.

This setup will provide the most energy throughout the year with minimal maintenance. However, it comes with a significant drawback — most of the energy generated will occur around midday. If you’re working during these hours, you may not directly benefit from the energy being produced. While this isn’t much of an issue if you’re connected to a grid with stable net billing, those with an off-grid setup may encounter inefficiencies.

In autonomous systems (or hybrid systems when they disconnect from the grid), the challenge becomes more evident. Typically, households require more energy in the mornings and evenings. With south-facing panels, the solution is often to install a larger battery to store excess energy. However, these batteries are expensive, and it’s important to consider alternative solutions that don’t require hefty storage investments.

Alternative Configurations:

Today’s energy landscape suggests that solar panel placement should closely align with your energy needs. Here are some configurations to consider:

  • East-West Split (50/50): This arrangement is ideal for households, allowing energy capture throughout the day. Learn more about the advantages in Optimizing Solar Panel Installation on East-West Facing Roofs .
  • East-South-West (40/20/40): Another option for homes that allows for a better spread of energy generation.
  • East-South-West (20/60/20): Suitable for businesses or stores, this setup prioritizes energy production during business hours.

Flexibility in Design:

While these configurations provide a solid starting point, they aren’t the only options. Consider your unique circumstances and surroundings when designing your solar panel system. Unconventional solutions, such as placing panels on a carport ( Building a Carport with Solar Panels ) or even exploring reflective surfaces, can provide additional energy gains.

In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to solar panel orientation. Starting with these suggestions will help, but flexibility is key. Consult an energy specialist when planning installations for larger operations to ensure the panel setup aligns with consumption needs.