Optimal Orientation For Solar Panels In Australian Capitals: Directly North Isn’t Always Best
Update 2 March 2025: This was written in 2019 and insolation figures for Australian capitals have been updated since then. Current results differ from what’s below, sometimes significantly. If you want up to date information, the best site to use I know of is PVWatts.
It is generally accepted the best direction to face solar panels to get the maximum possible output is directly north. While this is not a bad direction, it is often possible to get a very small boost by having them face slightly away from due north. Usually facing them a little to the east will improve output, but in some locations a small nudge to the west is best. [Read more…]
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