Facing south allows the panels to capture the most sunlight throughout the day, as the Sun moves from east to west across the southern sky.
South-facing solar panels therefore tend to produce the highest energy output year-round. However, if a south-facing roof isn’t available, don’t worry, you don’t need to move just yet! Panels facing south-east or south-west will still perform very well. Moreover having panels on both east AND west facing roofs can be very effective with only a slight drop in efficiency, with the added benefit of smoothing output over the day.
When it comes to the best angle for solar panels, orientation is only half the story. The tilt angle (or the vertical angle at which the panels are mounted) has a major impact on performance.
In the UK, the optimum angle for solar panels is typically between 30° and 40°. This allows them to absorb the most sunlight, especially during spring and autumn when the sun is at a moderate height in the sky. A 35° tilt, facing due South, provides a great balance for year-round energy generation.
On pitched roofs, the angle is determined by the roof’s slope. However, if you’re installing on a flat roof or the ground, mounting systems can be adjusted to achieve the optimum angle for your location and system size.
Solar panels should ideally face south - or rather be oriented in a southerly direction - in UK homes where possible. This is due to the UK’s position in the northern hemisphere, where the Sun’s path is always to the south. South-facing panels receive the most consistent and direct sunlight throughout the day.
However, your system’s performance will also depend on roof pitch, potential shading, and your energy usage habits.
But don't forget, installing panels on both east- and west-facing roofs will still offer a strong return on investment with only minimal drops in efficiency, especially when paired with battery storage to maximise self-consumption.
In summary, getting the direction and tilt right is essential to maximising your solar panel investment. In the UK, the optimal answer to which way solar panels should face is to the south, typically at a 35° angle. This should make sure you’re well on your way to generating clean, cost-effective electricity year-round. But as long as they're facing a southerly direction, or where you have both east and west facing panels together, the investment will be worthwhile.
At Thermly, we help UK homeowners find the most efficient solar setup for their property. We also advise on complementary green tech, such as batteries, to help maximise your output. Contact us today - we’re here to help you make the smartest choice for long-term savings.
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