Are you considering solar panel installation for your home? One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make when it comes to generating power from the sun is selecting the optimal angle for your solar panels. After all, depending on their position relative to the sun, your solar panels could be producing significantly less energy than they’re technically capable of providing – and that’s why finding just the right angle matters.
In this guide, we’ll discuss how solar panel angles work and what options are available so you can make an informed decision about positioning them at home. Read on to find out more or skip ahead by clicking on the sections below.
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Which angle is the best for solar panels in Australia?
To get the most out of your solar panels, it’s important to consider which angle is best for installation. Generally, the best angle for a solar panel in Australia is between 12 and 43 degrees, as this will maximise the amount of sunlight the panels receive during peak sun hours.
However, depending on your geographic location, as well as how much sunlight you are likely to receive, other angles may be more effective: for example, about 33 to 35 degrees if you’re in Sydney, or roughly 27 degrees if you’re in Brisbane. A qualified solar panel installer can advise what angle would best suit your home based on your individual circumstances and needs.
Finding the best angle for your panels can be tricky, but understanding the science is half the battle. If you’re looking to maximise the year-round exposure of your solar panels, it all comes down to angling them according to their latitude angle. Basically, if your rooftop positioning matches the latitude angle – or in other words, its distance from the equator – then that’ll likely be the best angle. Again, a certified solar installer will be able to calculate this number for you.
Best Solar Panel Angle by State
| City | Optimum Panel Angle |
|---|---|
| Sydney | 33-35° |
| Melbourne | 36-39° |
| Brisbane | 26-28° |
| Perth | 31-33° |
| Adelaide | 34-36° |
| Canberra | 34-36° |
| Hobart | 41-43° |
| Darwin | 12-13° |
Source: SolarQuotes
How does angle affect solar panels?
To maximise solar efficiency, solar panels should be set at an angle that helps collect as much solar energy as possible from the sun. The solar panel angle also affects how much direct sunlight each cell receives and is referred to as the ‘solar installation tilt angle’.
Not all solar panel angles are equally effective – there are ideal angles for different parts of Australia depending on climate and season. For instance, if you live in Darwin, a solar installation tilt angle of around 12 to 13 degrees should be used.
Does the optimal angle differ throughout the year?
Installing solar panels is a great way to take advantage of Australia’s abundant sunshine, but optimal solar panel angles can vary between seasons. In summer, the sun is higher in the sky and panels will take advantage of angles that are tilted toward the direct sunlight. In winter, shorter days mean less exposure to sunlight, meaning a lower angle may be more optimal.
Your preferred solar installer should be able to advise you of the optimal absorption angle available during each season. Depending on location, optimal angles for autumn and spring may change as days become more or less uniform throughout the seasonal transition period. Keep in mind, your solar panel installer will likely recommend an installation angle that best suits your circumstances and location all-year-round.
Will your roof dictate the angle of your solar panels?
Most solar panel installations in Australia require solar panels that face a certain way. This is not only for aesthetic reasons but also necessary to ensure maximum solar power absorption. The solar panels need to point towards the sun, so the angle and height of your roof can have a direct impact on the solar panel angle you choose.
The solar panel angle will usually be determined before installation by measuring your roof’s height, tilt and direction. Generally, solar panels pointing north will expose them to more sunlight throughout the day due to Australia’s geographical positioning relative to the equator.
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How to find the best solar panel angle
When investing in solar panels, the best angle for them to face is the one that maximises the exposure to the sun over the panel’s lifetime. An optimal angle will ensure panels get the best return on investment and generate more power throughout the day. Knowing this, it’s worth researching your local geography before installation.
If your installer can’t provide a suitable angle, you should consider calling a few companies for advice. Good thing we provide a list of some of Australia’s best solar installers, as rated by customers on factors like solar system performance, set-up cost and more. Hit the link below to get started.
Compare solar plans
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3911kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4613kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4011kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
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