☀️ In the UK, south-facing solar panels soak up the most sunlight during the day.
☀️ North-facing panels get the least sunlight exposure.
☀️ If your roof isn’t ideal, ground or shed-mounted solar panels can be a great alternative.
Thinking about getting solar panels for your UK home and wondering are North or South facing solar panels best? The best direction for them is south, as they capture the most sunlight, boosting your energy production. But don’t worry if your roof faces north – you can still benefit from solar energy.
To see what solar panels work best for your home, fill out our contact form and get a free, no-obligation quote from REM’s experts.
Do solar panels in the UK need to be south-facing?
There are no rules about where to place your solar panels in the UK, but some positions are better for maximising energy. South-facing panels generally perform best as they catch more sunlight throughout the day.
How much power do north-facing solar panels produce?
A 3kWp solar PV system generates varying amounts of electricity based on its direction. North-facing panels produce around 1,145 kWh annually, while south-facing panels generate about 1,361 kWh. So, north-facing panels work but aren’t as efficient.
What’s the difference with south-facing solar panels?
North-facing panels in the UK make roughly 60% of the energy that south-facing ones do. South-facing panels can reach up to 100% of their potential energy production.
Is it worth it to install north-facing solar panels?
North-facing panels still produce energy, just less of it. You might need more panels to match the energy output of south-facing ones, and it will take about four years longer for the system to pay for itself.
The effectiveness of your panels depends on various factors, not just direction. Shade, angle, size, and type of panels all play a role. For instance, monocrystalline panels are highly efficient but more costly.
Alternatives to a north-facing roof
If your roof isn’t suitable, you can install solar panels on the ground in your garden or on a shed or garage roof. Ground-mounted panels are usually more expensive but can be positioned for optimal sunlight exposure. They are also easier to clean and maintain. Just ensure your shed or garage roof is strong enough to support the panels.
What is the ideal angle and direction for solar panels in the UK?
For the best results, angle your solar panels between 20 and 50 degrees, facing south. This setup captures the most sunlight throughout the day.
What’s the best solar panel setup in the southern hemisphere?
If you live in the southern hemisphere, like in South Africa, Australia, or Argentina, your panels should face north to get the most sunlight, as the sun is closer to the equator.
The benefits of optimising solar panels
Optimising your solar panels can lead to big benefits, including better performance and cost savings. By getting the orientation, pitch, and shading just right, you can maximise your solar panel efficiency. This combo of higher performance and savings from tax credits means a payback period of under six years.
Increasing solar energy output
An optimised solar setup can really boost your energy output. To get the best efficiency, you need to consider roof orientation, pitch, and shading. If you’re curious about solar for your north-facing roof, contact us for a free site assessment. Adjusting your solar array can further increase your energy output.
Adjusting your solar array
Tweaking the orientation of your solar energy system is a smart way to maximise energy output and cut costs. This involves adjusting the orientation and pitch of your roof. It’s worth getting a professional assessment to see if solar could work for your north-facing roof. From there, you can find the best mounting options for a flat roof and start enjoying the benefits of solar energy. Even if south-facing isn’t an option, a north-facing roof can still deliver impressive results.
Ready to explore your solar options? Contact REM for expert advice and a free quote.
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