Optimal Sun Angle For Solar Panels

The ideal angle for your solar panels can vary depending on your solar objectives.

Optimal sun angle for solar panels.

The angle of your solar array is an important factor in maximizing your energy production. Solar panel angle by zip code. This is because it s based on the average position of the sun over your property. This solar angle calculator tells you the optimum angle to get the best out of your system.

Calculating the ideal angle for your solar panels is not that difficult. 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. Depending on where you live the best angle at which you should install solar panels will change. 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.

Here two simple methods for calculating approximate solar panel angle according to your latitude. 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. 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.

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. Most solar arrays are installed at a tilt.