Optimum Angle For Solar Panels In Australia

Since solar panels are more productive when the sun s rays are perpendicular to their surfaces the certainly best orientation is the one directly true south azimuth angle 180.

Optimum angle for solar panels in australia.

Most australian homes have a roof pitch of 20 to 30 which is considered optimum for maximizing solar power generation. The optimum angle varies throughout the year depending on the seasons and your location and this calculator shows the difference in sun. On the contrary in the countries of the southern hemisphere such as south africa and australia the best orientation is true north. The next question is at what angle from horizontal should the panels be tilted.

It s a common belief that panel tilt from horizontal should equal a location s latitude but this is not quite correct. Placing panels flush against these types of roofs will mean less electricity production which will lead to reduced solar savings over time. This means that for best results the roof pitch of your property should ideally be equal to the latitude angle with the panels mounted at the same angle as the roof. A minimum tilt of 10 is recommended to ensure self cleaning by rainfall.

So for my house in adelaide the ideal solar panel angle is 35 from horizontal. To get the best out of your photovoltaic panels you need to angle them towards the sun. Blantyre is at 15 degrees south almost at the same latitude than darwin in australia. It turns out that you can do better than this about 4 better.

The ideal angle for solar panels in australia is usually equal to the latitude angle of the location of the property. In 7 of australia s 8 capitals the best angle is at least 3 degrees less than the latitude. The optimum tilt angle is calculated by adding 15 degrees to your latitude during winter and subtracting 15 degrees from your latitude during summer. The ideal angle for your solar panels to maximize the power produced over the whole year is simply the latitude of your location.

The summer optimum tilt angle on the other hand will be 34 15 19. Low angle roofs will also face obstacles when it comes to solar panel installation and may require specialized racking if you re looking to tilt them at the optimal angle. For instance if your latitude is 34 the optimum tilt angle for your solar panels during winter will be 34 15 49. Why is the perfect solar panel angle simply your latitude.

There is no shading from either side. We are considering to install solar panels on the north and south facing side of the roof. The roof is tilted at about 15 degrees. This article is about the best angle to tilt solar panels for the maximum possible energy yield over a year.