Solar panels are an excellent way to harness renewable energy, but their efficiency depends largely on where they are placed. At Sun In One, we understand the importance of optimising solar panel placement to maximise energy generation. Whether you’re powering a commercial property, industrial site, or residential space, the right placement can make all the difference.
Choosing the Right Direction for Maximum Sun Exposure
Solar cells panel is use solar energy with Speed dome CCTV camera system new technology 4.0 signal for looked around security area for safe.
The sun spends most of its time in the southern part of the sky. Therefore, solar panels should face true south (not magnetic south) to capture the most sunlight throughout the day. This orientation ensures that your panels receive direct sunlight from sunrise to sunset, which is key to maximising their power output.
Optimising for Specific Times of Day
If your energy needs peak during certain times, you can slightly adjust the direction of your panels. For example, tilting your panels a little to the west can increase energy production in the late afternoon. Alternatively, tilting them toward the east could boost morning energy production.
Setting the Correct Tilt Angle for Solar Panels
The angle at which solar panels are tilted plays a critical role in their ability to capture sunlight. As a general rule, the tilt angle should match your location’s latitude. This allows the panels to capture sunlight perpendicularly, which increases energy absorption and improves efficiency.
Seasonal Adjustments
In regions with distinct seasons, the sun’s position in the sky changes throughout the year. During the winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, solar panels can benefit from a steeper angle. Conversely, during summer, a shallower angle helps capture the higher-positioned sun.
While seasonal tilt adjustments can significantly boost energy production, most residential solar installations use fixed panels. If you’re interested in getting the most out of your system year-round, Sun In One offers adjustable mounting systems for commercial and industrial applications, allowing you to modify the tilt angle for optimal seasonal performance.
Avoiding Shading for Maximum Efficiency
The Impact of Shade on Solar Panels
One of the most significant factors that affect solar panel efficiency is shading. Even partial shading can drastically reduce power output, as it limits the amount of sunlight the panels can absorb.
How to Minimise Shading
To get the most out of your solar panels, they should be installed in a location with minimal shading throughout the day. Common causes of shading include trees, chimneys, and nearby buildings. It’s crucial to ensure that your solar panels receive direct sunlight during peak hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Roof-Mounted vs. Ground-Mounted Panels
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Roof-mounted solar panels are a popular option for residential and commercial installations. They make use of existing space and are less likely to experience shading if installed on a properly oriented roof.
The pitch of your roof plays an important role in determining the optimal tilt for your panels. Ideally, your roof should have a pitch between 15 and 40 degrees to allow panels to capture maximum sunlight.
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
For properties with insufficient roof space or those that experience significant shading, ground-mounted solar panels are an excellent alternative. These systems provide more flexibility in positioning, allowing you to choose the optimal direction and tilt for your panels.
Ground-mounted systems also offer easier access for maintenance and can be adjusted seasonally for better performance. At Sun In One, we design custom ground-mounted solar solutions to suit the specific needs of our clients, whether for large commercial solar farms or residential installations.
Solar Tracking Technology
For those looking to maximise energy production, solar tracking systems offer an advanced solution. These systems follow the sun’s path across the sky, ensuring that your solar panels are always at the optimal angle. Single-axis trackers adjust from east to west, while dual-axis trackers also adjust vertically to account for the changing position of the sun throughout the year.
While solar tracking systems are more expensive, they can increase energy output by up to 35%. At Sun In One, we offer customised solar tracking solutions for large-scale installations, such as commercial properties and solar farms.
Accounting for Local Weather Patterns
Weather patterns such as cloudy days, rainfall, or snowfall can impact the efficiency of solar panels. To combat this, positioning your panels in the area with the best access to direct sunlight is crucial. In regions with heavy rain or snow, installing solar panels at a steeper angle helps ensure debris and snow slide off, keeping your panels clear.
Maximising the power output from your solar panels depends on strategic placement and taking into account factors such as direction, tilt, shading, and local climate. At Sun In One, we specialise in designing solar systems tailored to your unique environment and energy needs.