ᐅ Cardinal Direction Solar

Created on: 8 Oct 2015 09:51
R
Rihiki
R
Rihiki
8 Oct 2015 09:51
Hello!
We want to equip our house with solar energy. My question is, does the orientation of the house matter? In other words, would it be less efficient depending on which direction the house faces?

Thank you very much!

Best regards
N
nordanney
8 Oct 2015 10:16
Regarding photovoltaics: It depends 😉

For example, we decided to optimize our self-consumption by installing panels evenly across our tent roof on the east, south, and west sides. This way, we achieve a balanced energy yield throughout the entire day.
R
Rihiki
9 Oct 2015 11:40
Thanks for the tips!
f-pNo12 Oct 2015 17:19
Hello,

Certainly, the roof orientation is a crucial factor. With a photovoltaic system facing north, the electricity yield tends to be quite low.

The roof shape also plays a significant role:
A hip roof (see @nordanney) can be covered on the east, south, and west sides, which results in a more balanced energy production. However, the yield on the east and west sides will generally be lower than on the south side, depending on the time of year and day (due to the solar angle). Please correct me if I am wrong.
With a gable roof, you only have two sides to install panels on, but often one side allows for a larger installation area. Ideally, the side with panels should face south, although I sometimes wish I could install a few panels facing west to capture the evening sun.

Other important factors for yield are geographic location, roof pitch, and—don’t forget—shading from trees, satellite dishes, chimneys, taller neighboring buildings, etc. According to information I received, even small shading on a panel can reduce its output by up to 80%.
L
Legurit
12 Oct 2015 19:26
One more question from me:
What do you need the electricity for? If it is for heating support in winter, then east and west are not that good anymore. Also, a steeper roof pitch is better in that case.