If you are considering solar panels for your home, roof orientation is one of the most important things to assess before you begin. In the UK, south-facing roofs are generally considered ideal because they receive direct sunlight throughout the day. However, if you have a north-facing roof, you should contact professionals for solar panels in Crawley who can help with the installation.
Many homeowners worry that a north-facing roof won’t get enough sunlight and isn’t a good option for solar panels. While north-facing solar panels can produce less electricity, the actual performance depends on other factors like roof pitch, shading and panel technology.
Why is roof direction important for solar panels?
Solar panels generate electricity when the sunlight reaches the cells. The amount of usable sunlight can vary depending on the roof’s direction and angle.
Why the south-facing roof typically gets the most sunlight: East-west roofs can also be used and are suitable for producing electricity during the daytime.
A north-facing roof, on the other hand, generally receives the least amount of sunlight. This reduces the property’s annual electricity generation compared with a property with a south-facing roof and solar panels.
Can north-facing roofs generate electricity through solar panels?
The answer is yes. A north-facing roof can also generate solar electricity during certain periods when sunlight is available. However, a property with a north-facing roof should not expect high energy generation from the solar panel. Roof pitch is especially important in these circumstances. A shallow roof may receive more useful sunlight than a steeply pitched Roof.
What are the factors affecting solar panel performance?
Shading
If trees, neighbouring buildings, or other obstructions shade your roof and prevent sunlight from reaching the solar panel cells, energy production will be limited.
Roof condition
While roof pitch matters, you should also consider the roof’s condition before installing panels. Panels are generally durable and designed to operate for many years; if there are no major roofing issues before installation, you can expect reliable service for years. Instead of repairing or reinstalling the panels later, it’s best to check the roof’s condition and install the panels accordingly.
Panel technology
Modern solar panels are designed to generate electricity under indirect sunlight. So, using them on a north-facing roof can help the property generate enough electricity even under varied roofing conditions.
Orientation and tilt
Panels which are oriented southwards and tilted towards the south in the Northern Hemisphere capture most of the sun’s rays. The correct tilt angle matches the local latitude and maximises the sunlight’s exposure.
What to do if you have a north-facing roof?
Contact professional installers for proper orientation. Even the panels on a north-facing roof can produce significant solar energy. Production may be 30% less than on south-facing roofs; however, it can still benefit your property. Instead of direct sunlight, these panels use ambient light and cloud reflections to generate energy.
Blue Electric Contractors are a leading electrical installation and repair company based in Crawley, West Sussex. With 10 years of experience in installations of solar panels in Crawley, we have been serving homeowners all across Crawley.
Blue Electric
Electrical Services Company based in Crawley, West Sussex