It is easy to understand that solar panels work best when they can get as much direct sunlight as possible. So, it is no surprise that one of the most common questions we get asked is “What is the best direction for solar panels?”
The position of solar panels can be hugely important to their output for best solar installation in Kenya. When you also consider that output affects the cost-effectiveness of panels, it is essential to get it right.
Whether you are having domestic or commercial solar panel installation, it is important to understand the ideal location for your panels to be placed in order to get the most out of them. The direction and position of your panels can actually have a remarkably large effect on their efficiency, so this is worth understanding.
It is easy to understand that solar panels work best when they can get as much direct sunlight as possible. So, it is no surprise that one of the most common questions we get asked is “What is the best direction for solar panels?”
Here we have provided a detailed guide to some of the important things you need to know about where you should place your solar panels and which way to point solar panels.
Which direction is best for solar panels?
The first thing to consider for your best solar installation in Kenya, and probably the aspect that will most affect its output, is the direction that the panels face. A large part of the best advice here just comes down to simple logic with regards to the sun’s movements, as no matter where you live, the sun always rises in the east and sets in the west.
Orientation – In Kenya, the ideal orientation is east-west. However, roofs facing other directions are acceptable as solar panels produce as much as 95% of their full power even when within 20° of the sun’s direction.
Tilt – The number of degrees that the panels are off the horizontal surface; for aesthetic reasons, it’s recommended to have the tilt at the same pitch as the sloping roof. Panels should be installed at an incline to the horizontal for maximum solar collection. However, for regions located close to the equator such as Kenya, the panels should be pointing straight up.
What angle should solar panels be at?
There is virtually no debate regarding the most effective direction of solar panels – but in terms of the correct angle for the effectiveness of panels, there is far less in the way of a one-size-fits-all solution.
If you were living directly on the equator this would be simple, as a horizontal panel at 90 degrees would have the sun directly above at all times.
Are certain types of panels more effective?
While you might not be aware of it, there are many different types of solar panel from a range of providers. The two most common are the cheaper but less efficient polycrystalline solar panels and the more expensive but more efficient monocrystalline solar panels.
While these panels work to achieve different levels of output, this is not down to their positioning, so you can choose the panel that is right for you separately from deciding its placement.
Do they have to be attached to the roof?
The majority of solar panels owners choose to have their panels attached to their roof for best solar installation in Kenya. This has led to something of an assumption that they have to be placed on the roof. But this is not necessarily the case. Roof-mounted solar panels do have plenty of advantages such as being out of the shade of trees, as well as being protected from heavy wind.
However, free-standing solar panels can also be valuable as they can be placed facing East-West and at any angle you wish. Alternatively, integrated solutions such as façade and flat-roof solar panels can be used to replace conventional building materials.
At Jesaton Systems we provide quality and long lasting residential and home solar energy systems in Kenya. Our technicians are experienced and qualified – giving you the peace of mind that everything will be done professionally. Contact us today on 0715020605 or Email for a quote/site survey.