ᐅ Photovoltaic System – What Is the Best Roof Orientation?

Hello everyone,

I have a question again.

We are planning a new build, and the floor plan we really like has a roof orientation facing SE/NW. This means we get sunlight on one side of the roof from sunrise until around noon/early afternoon, and on the other side from noon until sunset.

Without doing any complicated calculations,

which side would generate more energy over the course of the year, or would investing in photovoltaic panels with this orientation even be worthwhile?

Thank you very much.

Best regards

Sky

- Southeast and northwest. So, split the system if the radiation is actually as described.
- Depending on the roof pitch, the loss compared to an optimal south orientation is mostly theoretical.
- In a private home, build the system optimized for self-consumption. With enough electricity use during the day (industry, office) or surplus money, fully equip both sides.

I would no longer install a solar thermal system on a northeast-facing roof if the tilt angle exceeds 30°. The roof is shaded for most of the time or only receives very indirect sunlight.

However, the original poster has it like this. To better assess this, you need to be very familiar with the on-site conditions, including the planned roof pitch and, if applicable, shading and other factors. If properly designed, it can shift the electricity production somewhat into the morning and evening hours.

Sorry, I also mean northwest.

That might be a hint of evening sun, but it is probably not cost-effective.