Australia has over 2.3 million rooftop solar power systems, with nearly 20,000 new installations each month. Using the sun’s energy is a wise and environmentally friendly way to meet our energy needs.
But, optimising their performance requires thoroughly understanding Australia’s best solar panel orientation. So you’ll need to know the best place to put your solar panels. And today, we’ll try to understand the best place, direction, and orientation to put your panels.
Understanding the best orientation and place for solar panels is essential to get maximum output from solar panels.
Why is The Orientation of Solar Panels Important?
The positioning of solar panels plays a crucial role in their efficiency, as they rely on exposure to sunlight to function effectively. To optimise the performance of your solar panels, careful consideration of their placement and angle is necessary.
The chosen angle directly impacts the energy produced from sunlight and the potential savings on your energy bill.
However, the structural capacity of your roof, like trees blocking the sun, may limit the ideal positioning. Ultimately, your specific circumstances will influence the direction you place your solar panels.
Solar installers can work closely with you to design a system that best suits your needs and energy consumption. If you’re interested in installing solar panels on your rooftop, check out ratings and reviews on solar panel installers to find the most reputable options.
The Optimal Direction for Solar Panels in Australia
Solar panel orientation refers to the direction that your solar panels face. It is a critical factor in determining the amount of sunlight your panels can capture and convert into electricity.
The best direction for solar panels in Australia is typically north-facing. North-facing solar panels in the Southern Hemisphere, including Australia, receive the most direct sunlight throughout the day, And it maximises solar energy production.
North-facing panels capture sunlight from the Northern Hemisphere, where the sun is positioned at its highest point.
By orienting your solar panels towards the north, you can take advantage of the sun’s path and optimise the amount of solar energy your panels generate. This north-facing orientation ensures that the panels receive sunlight from sunrise to sunset for most of the day.
While a north-facing direction is a general recommendation, solar panels can still generate energy facing east or west. East-facing panels capture the morning sunlight while west-facing panels receive the afternoon sunlight.
If your roof has limited space or shading issues, consider installing panels on east or west-facing roofs to maximise sunlight’s benefits.
However, it’s important to note that while east and west orientations may provide some energy production, they typically generate less energy than a north-facing orientation.
By facing your solar panels north, you can ensure they receive the maximum sunlight throughout the day, increasing their energy production.
Moreover, tilting the panels into a perfect angle plays a significant role. Ideally, This angle should equal your location’s latitude to capture the most sunlight over a year.
North-facing panels tilted at 30 degrees achieve the highest solar energy production throughout the year. This configuration is particularly beneficial for those with a fixed feed-in tariff, as it maximises savings.
West-facing panels in Australia
West-facing panels generate the most solar energy between 1:30 pm and sunset. This orientation is ideal for individuals away from home in the morning and present during the afternoon.
By utilising appliances during these hours, one can lower their electricity bill. Otherwise, they would have to purchase power from electricity retailers at a higher rate during peak demand periods.
East-facing panels in Australia
South-facing panels in Australia
North-facing panels in Australia
The Ideal Placement
North-facing roof: North-facing roofs in the Southern Hemisphere, including Australia, receive the most direct sunlight throughout the day. Install your solar panels on a north-facing roof to maximise solar energy production.
Tilt and angle: The optimal tilt angle for solar panels in Australia is generally around 30 to 35 degrees to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. However, this can vary depending on your location. You can consult with a solar installer or use online tools that calculate the ideal tilt and angle based on the site.
Shading: Avoid shading as much as possible. Even a small amount of shading can significantly reduce the efficiency of solar panels. Trim or remove any trees or objects that cast shadows on your panels during peak sunlight hours.
Climate considerations: Australia has diverse climates, ranging from tropical in the north to more temperate in the south. Consider your specific environment when determining the placement of solar panels. In hotter regions, leaving a small gap between the panels and the roof may be beneficial to allow for airflow and prevent overheating.
Mounting options: Solar panels can be installed on various surfaces, including rooftops, ground mounts, or solar carports. Evaluate the available space on your property and choose the mounting option that best suits your needs.
Local regulations and guidelines: Familiarise yourself with local laws, permits, and policies related to solar panel installations in your area. Some neighbourhoods or homeowners’ associations may have specific rules regarding panel placement.
We recommend consulting with Solar Emporium, a professional solar installer. Our energy experts can assess your property’s specific nature and provide personalised advice for optimal solar panel placement for your home.
How Technology Has Helped Solar Panel Placement
The location of solar panels is of utmost importance for their efficiency and overall functionality. It is much like the significance of location in the real estate world. Solar technology has seen significant improvements over the years.
It provides homeowners with more flexibility in selecting where to position their panels. In the past, solar panels were most effective when facing true south and installed in regions with consistent, year-round sunlight.
This made it less advisable for homes not oriented towards the south or located in rainy, cloudy areas to invest in solar panels, as the potential savings might not have justified the costs.
However, current solar technology has made the direction and region more open. Nowadays, panels can be placed on roofs or the ground, facing east or west, while still capturing substantial energy. This increased adaptability allows for significant cost savings on monthly electricity bills and an overall reduction in energy consumption.
Why Can’t Everyone Angle Their Panels Toward the North?
Some property owners have their panels facing west due to the direction of their rooftops. Typically, panels align with the roof and largely avoid shade when installed.
If trees or structures shadow one side of a roof, the logical choice would be the unshaded side. These could be east, north, west, or any direction. With the decreasing cost of solar batteries, the optimal solution is to cover the entire roof, regardless of orientation. The idea is to store the necessary energy with reduced energy costs.
How to Decide on A suitable Plan for Your Home?
For owners of solar energy systems, the most precise way to monitor solar performance is through a proactive tracking system. These systems can quickly pay for themselves, depending on the size and dependability of a solar energy system.
An active monitoring system is essential to ensure accurate solar performance tracking. It enables users to monitor energy usage and net electricity transactions. It ensures solar panels function with optimal energy efficiency.
With a smart monitor, you can also compare your system’s projected energy generation with the energy produced on a specific day. Additionally, you can assess whether your solar panels function at peak energy efficiency.
Select Solar Emporium to Get Your Desired Solar Package
Every home and business is unique, so it’s always a good idea to consult a solar installation professional to determine the best setup for your needs. Several cost-effective packages are available at Solar Emporium.
Get a free solar quote today! We have created these packages considering your energy needs, location, and budget.
These packages combine tier-1 solar panels, Australian-designed battery systems, and inverters. These will allow you to store excess solar energy and power your home day and night.
Various financing options are now accessible for installing solar panels and solar batteries. You can pay them off gradually over time.
Optimising is a crucial aspect of designing a solar power system. It enables you to maximise your solar system’s potential. The ideal configuration of a solar power system depends on your electricity usage with solar production.
A reputable solar installer like Solar Emporium can design a solar system based on property details and electricity consumption habits. It will help you achieve the best return on investment for your solar power system. Use the sun and enjoy the benefits of sustainable, renewable energy in Australia.
