Solar energy has established itself as one of the most accessible and efficient renewable energy sources worldwide. Installing solar panels on homes and commercial buildings not only contributes to environmental sustainability, but also offers significant savings on electricity bills. However, to maximise the performance of these systems, it is crucial to consider several factors, including the location and orientation of the solar panels. In this article, we will explore how to get the best results from your solar panels by addressing essential aspects such as orientation, the impact of location and the influence of shading.
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ToggleGeographical location is a determining factor for the performance of solar panels. Ideally, solar panels should be installed in areas that receive a high amount of solar radiation throughout the year. Countries located near the equator have a natural advantage due to the higher incidence of direct sunlight. However, in regions with more cloudy climates or at higher latitudes, installation can still be feasible and beneficial, provided feasibility studies are conducted and the angles and orientation of the panels are optimised. To determine the best location within a property, areas with as little shade as possible and with direct exposure to the sun for most of the day should be chosen. Rooftops and open land are common choices. In addition, it is advisable to use solar analysis tools and software that can simulate the performance of the panels in different locations and conditions.
The orientation of solar panels is crucial to maximise their efficiency. In the northern hemisphere, solar panels should face south to receive the most sunlight throughout the day. In the southern hemisphere, the optimal orientation is north. This alignment ensures that the panels capture the most energy during the hours of highest solar irradiation. In addition to the cardinal orientation, the tilt angle of the panels also plays an important role. This angle should be adjusted according to the latitude of the site. As a general rule, a tilt angle equivalent to the latitude of the site is recommended to maximise the annual solar energy harvest. However, seasonal variations may warrant additional adjustments: a steeper angle may be beneficial in winter, while a flatter angle may optimise collection in summer.
Not all roofs have the perfect orientation for the installation of solar panels. If your roof does not face south in the northern hemisphere or north in the southern hemisphere, or if its slope is not ideal, there are still solutions. Today’s technology allows for a certain degree of flexibility in the installation of solar panels.
One option is the use of mounting structures that adjust the angle and orientation of the panels, allowing for greater solar energy collection. It is also possible to consider installing solar tracking systems, which automatically adjust the orientation of the panels throughout the day to follow the movement of the sun. Although these systems can be more expensive, they significantly increase the efficiency of the panels. Another alternative is to install solar panels in other locations on the property, such as garages, pergolas or even on purpose-built structures in the garden. The key is to maximise sun exposure and minimise shading.
Shading is one of the main enemies of solar panel efficiency. Even small shadows cast by trees, neighbouring buildings or chimneys can have a significant impact on energy production. This is because the solar cells within a panel are connected in series, and shading on a single cell can reduce the efficiency of the entire string. To mitigate the effects of shading, it is essential to conduct a detailed site analysis prior to installation. This includes assessing the shadows cast at different times of the day and during different times of the year, and tools such as solar shadow analysers can be of great help. In addition, modern technology has developed microinverters and power optimisers that are installed on each panel or small group of panels, allowing shaded areas not to affect the performance of the rest of the system. These devices can significantly improve efficiency in installations where shading is unavoidable. Installing solar panels is a smart investment for both the pocketbook and the planet. However, to get the best results, attention to location, orientation and shading conditions is critical. With proper design and planning, it is possible to maximise energy production and ensure that the solar system operates at its maximum capacity, providing clean, renewable energy for many years to come. Thinking of investing in solar panel installation? At RDS we can help you, contact our team to get the highest solar panels performance possible.