North, East, South or West? The Best Roof Direction for Solar Panels Explained

When investing in solar technology, ensuring optimal placement of your solar panels is crucial for maximising energy production. At Jewel Renewables, we understand the significance of aligning your investment with the right knowledge to enhance its value. Different geographical locations and personalised needs can affect the ideal positioning of solar panels on your roof. Let’s navigate through the considerations to determine the best roof direction for mounting solar panels.

Understanding Solar Panel Efficiency

Solar panels generate electricity by converting sunlight into energy. The efficiency of this process largely depends on the amount of direct sunlight the panels receive. Therefore, the direction your roof faces plays a pivotal role in the performance of your solar installation.

For those new to solar technology, a south-facing roof is usually recommended in the UK. This direction receives the most sunlight throughout the day, especially during peak sunny hours. By optimising your panels to face south, you are more likely to capture maximum sunlight, leading to higher energy generation and more effective cost savings on your energy bills.

What about East and West-facing Roofs?

While south is ideal, east and west-facing roofs can also be viable options for solar installations. Solar panels placed on east-facing roofs capture sunlight in the morning, while those on west-facing roofs pick up the sun in the late afternoon. 

Installing panels on both east and west sides can provide a more balanced solar power supply throughout the day. This might be particularly favourable for homes that consume more power in the mornings and evenings. Moreover, a dual orientation may provide more consistent power output, reducing the times when excess energy is sent back to the grid.

Considering North-facing Roofs for Solar Panels

North-facing roofs are generally considered the least favourable in the northern hemisphere due to their limited exposure to sunlight. However, with advancing solar panel technologies, the efficiency of panels in lower light is improving, making north-facing installations a possibility, albeit not the most optimal. They might not result in as much return on investment in terms of energy production, but in some cases, they can still be a valuable addition, especially if other directions are not viable or you have additional space to utilise.

The Impact of Inclination on Your Solar Panels

The angle of your roof, or pitch, also affects solar panel performance. A roof with a steeper pitch might require adjustable panel mounts to optimise the angle of exposure to the sun. 

Our experts at Jewel Renewables are equipped to offer bespoke advice on how best to optimise your roof pitch alongside the direction to maximise efficiency. 

Getting It Right with Professional Help

Choosing the right direction for your solar panels is just as important as selecting the panels themselves. At Jewel Renewables, we understand the importance of perfect placement. Our professionals are ready to guide you through a detailed assessment of your property’s orientation, roof pitch, and your personal energy requirements to suggest the most effective solar panel setup.

Still unsure about the best direction for your new solar panels? Get in touch with our team today to learn more about your options and how you can optimise your solar investment. Our aim is to ensure that your transition to solar energy is seamless, cost-effective, and perfectly tailored to your home's specifications.

Ready to explore solar solutions for your home? Get a free online quote now using our online quoting tool and start your journey towards a more sustainable and energy efficient future with Jewel Renewables. Whether you're looking to cut energy costs, enhance the value of your property, or play a part in reducing carbon emissions, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.