When it comes to installing solar panels, the direction your roof faces can have a big impact on how much electricity you generate. South-facing roofs have long been considered the best option for maximum sunlight exposure.
But what if your roof faces east or west? Are solar panels still worth it? In this blog, we’ll explore how efficient solar panels are on east-west roofs compared to south-facing ones.
We’ll discuss the benefits, the potential energy output, and how these systems suit your energy needs. Whether you’re a homeowner or a farmer, this guide will help you make an informed decision about solar panel placement.
Why Solar Panels Face South?
When installing solar panels, many experts suggest facing them south. But why is that? The answer lies in the amount of sunlight your panels receive. South-facing solar panels capture the most sunlight throughout the day, allowing them to produce the highest amount of electricity. Let’s take a closer look at why this is considered the ideal direction for solar panels.
The Role of Sunlight in Solar Panel Efficiency
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, so the more sunlight they receive, the more power they can generate. South-facing panels get sunlight from sunrise to sunset, ensuring a consistent supply of energy throughout the day. This makes them highly efficient, especially in places like Ireland, where sunlight can vary throughout the year.
Optimal Direction for Maximum Solar Power Generation
Researchers have found that, in Ireland, south-facing panels perform best because they are exposed to the sun’s rays for the longest period. With more daylight hours hitting these panels, they produce more electricity than those facing other directions. For homeowners looking to maximise energy production, south-facing solar panels are often the best choice.
Why Solar Panels Face East-West?
While south-facing panels are often considered the most efficient, east-west facing panels have their own advantages. These setups can offer a more balanced energy production throughout the day. Let’s explore how east-west panels work and why they might be a better option for certain households or businesses.
East-West Solar Arrays for Balanced Power Generation
East-facing panels generate the most power in the morning, while west-facing panels produce more energy in the late afternoon and evening. By combining both, you can have a steady power output throughout the day. This is especially useful for homes where energy demand is higher in the mornings and evenings, such as when families are home before and after work.
Meeting Different Energy Demands
For people who are not home during the day or for businesses like dairy farms, which use a lot of power in the morning and evening, east-west arrays are a smart choice. They align well with energy usage patterns, providing electricity when it’s needed most. This can reduce reliance on the grid during peak hours and make energy use more efficient overall.
Other Directions for Solar Panels
Although south and east-west setups are the most popular, there are other directions to consider for solar panel installation. Depending on your roof’s layout and your specific energy needs, different orientations can still work, but they might not be as efficient.
What About Non-Ideal Directions?
North-facing solar panels generate much less electricity compared to south-facing ones because they get less direct sunlight. Similarly, north-east and north-west orientations aren’t ideal for maximum energy production. However, if your roof only allows for these directions, you’ll still get some energy output, just not as much as with a south-facing or east-west array.
Good Alternatives to South
If your roof faces south-east or south-west, you can still get nearly the same energy output as a fully south-facing system. These directions catch sunlight for most of the day, making them good alternatives for generating solar power. The difference in efficiency is minimal, and you’ll still benefit from solar energy without major losses.
The Importance of Solar Panel Tilt/Angle
The direction of your solar panels is crucial, but the angle at which they are installed is just as important. The tilt of your panels can affect how much sunlight they capture throughout the year, which directly impacts their efficiency.
Optimal Tilt for Solar Panels in Ireland
In Ireland, solar panels are most effective when tilted at an angle close to 30 degrees. This angle allows them to capture the maximum amount of sunlight during different seasons. A 30-degree tilt also works well with most pitched roofs, so no major adjustments are usually needed to achieve the best results.
The Impact of Roof Pitch on Solar Panel Efficiency
Your roof’s natural slope often determines the angle of your solar panels. Fortunately, most roofs have a pitch that works well for solar panel installations. While getting the angle exactly right isn’t always critical, a tilt close to 30 degrees helps ensure that your panels perform efficiently throughout the year, both in summer and winter.
Conclusion
While south-facing solar panels generate the most electricity, east-west setups offer balanced energy production throughout the day, making them ideal for homes and businesses with specific energy needs.
With a small difference in output, east-west arrays can still be highly efficient and cost-effective. Factors like roof orientation and panel angle should be considered when deciding on your solar installation.
For expert advise on the best solar setup for your property, contact Kirra Energy. Our experts will guide you through the process, ensuring you get the most efficient and cost-effective solar solution. Get in touch with us to start maximising your energy efficiency today!
FAQ’s
1. Can solar panels work efficiently on an east-west roof?
Yes, solar panels can work efficiently on an east-west roof. Although they may produce less energy compared to south-facing panels, they still capture enough sunlight throughout the day to be viable for most homeowners.
2. How much less efficient are solar panels on east-west roofs compared to south-facing ones?
Solar panels on east-west roofs are generally less efficient than those on south-facing roofs due to reduced sunlight exposure, but technological advancements and optimised installation can help close the gap.
3. What are the advantages of installing solar panels on east-west roofs?
East-west roofs capture sunlight in the morning and afternoon, offering a more balanced energy generation throughout the day, which can be useful if energy consumption peaks during these times.
4. Do solar panels on east-west roofs generate enough energy to cover household needs?
Yes, solar panels on east-west roofs can generate enough energy to cover most household needs, especially with energy-efficient appliances and optimised system design. While slightly less efficient than south-facing panels, they can still produce enough electricity.
5. How can I maximise the efficiency of solar panels on an east-west roof?
You can maximise efficiency by choosing high-efficiency solar panels, ensuring proper installation angles, and minimising shading. Additionally, using a solar inverter that optimises energy output based on sunlight conditions can improve performance on east-west roofs.
6. Is it worth installing solar panels on an east-west roof if I can’t have a south-facing system?
Absolutely. While a south-facing roof is ideal, east-west solar panel systems are still highly effective, especially with modern solar technology, making them a worthwhile investment for most homeowners.