Photovoltaic panels generate electricity in the north

Do north-facing solar panels produce more solar energy?

As the UK is in the northern hemisphere, south-facing panels will receive the most sun exposure throughout the day and, therefore, will produce more solar energy. However, this doesn’t mean that north-facing solar panels are fruitless.

How much power do north-facing solar panels produce?

For a typical 3kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system, north-facing panels will produce approximately 1,145 kWh of electricity per year, compared to, say, 1,361 kWh for a south-facing installation. So, north-facing panels don’t produce zero energy, but it is considerably less.

Are south-facing solar panels better than north-facing?

North-facing solar panels can still make some energy in the UK, but not as much as south-facing solar panels. You might need to install more solar panels to get the same amount of solar energy. It will also take longer for your solar PV system to pay for itself, about four years more, compared to south-facing solar panels.

Do solar panels generate electricity?

That said, the rate at which solar panels generate electricity varies depending on the amount of direct sunlight and the quality, size, number and location of panels in use. Even in winter, solar panel technology is still effective; at one point in February 2022, solar was providing more than 20% of the UK’s electricity.1

What is the difference between North and south facing solar panels?

There is an obvious difference between north and south facing solar panels in the UK, with south-facing solar panels between a 20 and 50 degree angle being the most preferable position. Again, this doesn’t mean that solar panels in a northern orientation are obsolete, but they will not produce as much solar energy as those that face south.

Should solar panels face north?

Your solar panels should face north, because that is where the equator is. This way, they can get more sunlight during the day. Before you get a solar PV system, you need to know the basics of how solar panels work and how to make them work best.