Solar energy is a brilliant way to reduce your carbon footprint and slash your energy bills. But to get the most from your solar panels, you need to install them in the right place. This blog explores the key factors that determine the best location for your solar panels, helping you make an informed decision for your home.
The importance of location
Your solar panels’ efficiency hinges on their location. A well-placed solar array can significantly boost your energy production, potentially saving you thousands of pounds over the system’s lifetime. But where should you put them? Let’s dive into the details…
Roof orientation
Your roof’s orientation plays a crucial role in solar panel efficiency. In the UK, south-facing roofs are the gold standard. They receive the most sunlight throughout the day, maximising your panels’ output. If you’re lucky enough to have a south-facing roof, you’re off to a good start.
But don’t worry if your roof isn’t perfectly south-facing. South-east and south-west facing roofs are still excellent options. They’ll catch plenty of sunlight, albeit with a slight reduction in overall efficiency compared to a true south orientation. East and west-facing roofs can work well, too. While they won’t produce as much energy as south-facing installations, they can still be viable options. East-facing roofs will catch the morning sun while west-facing roofs will soak up the afternoon rays.
North-facing roofs present more of a challenge. They receive less direct sunlight, especially in winter. However, all is not lost. If a north-facing roof is your only option, consider alternative mounting solutions or ground-mounted arrays.
Roof pitch
Your roof’s angle, known as its pitch, also affects solar panel efficiency. The ideal angle for solar panels is between 30° and 40°. This pitch allows the panels to capture the most sunlight throughout the year, accounting for the sun’s changing position between seasons. Don’t fret if your roof doesn’t fall within this range. Panels can be installed on roofs with pitches from 15° to 60°, though you may see some reduction in efficiency at the extremes. For steep, shallow or flat roofs, your installer might suggest mounting brackets to adjust the angle of the panels for optimal performance.
Roof structure and condition
Solar panels are surprisingly light, but they do add extra weight to your roof. Most modern homes can handle the additional load without issue, but it’s worth getting a professional assessment, especially for older properties.
Your roof material matters, too. While solar panels can be installed on most roof types, some materials are more suitable than others. Slate, tile and metal roofs are ideal, while thatched roofs present challenges. Age is another factor to consider. If your roof is nearing the end of its life, it might be wise to replace it before installing solar panels. It can save you the hassle and expense of removing and reinstalling the panels later.
Shade
Shade is the enemy of solar panel efficiency. Even partial shading can significantly reduce your system’s output. Common causes of shade include nearby buildings, trees, chimneys or other obstacles which block out the sun. When planning your installation, consider both current and future sources of shade. That small tree in your neighbour’s garden might not be an issue now, but it could be a big problem in a few years. Modern solar systems often use microinverters or power optimisers to help mitigate the impact of partial shading. Your installer can advise on the best solution for your situation.
Alternative installation locations
While roof-mounted panels are the most common, they’re not your only option. Ground-mounted solar arrays can be an excellent alternative, especially if you have ample outdoor space. These systems allow for optimal orientation and angle, potentially increasing efficiency. Outbuildings and garages can also be good locations for solar panels. They often have simpler roof structures and may be easier to work with than your main house. They may also provide the best location for your inverter, battery and other system components instead of taking up living space in your home.
Vertical wall panels are also growing in popularity. While less efficient than roof-mounted systems, they can be a good option in certain situations, particularly for buildings with limited roof space.
Climate and weather
The UK’s climate varies from region to region, which can impact your solar panels’ performance. Southern England generally receives more sunlight than Scotland or Northern Ireland, but don’t let this put you off if you live further north. Modern solar panels are surprisingly efficient, even in less sunny climates. Local weather patterns can also influence your installation. If you live in a particularly windy area, your installer might recommend extra-secure mounting systems.
Planning and legal considerations
Before installing, it’s crucial to check the legal and planning requirements. In most cases, domestic solar panel installations are considered ‘permitted development’ and don’t require planning permission. However, there are exceptions, particularly for listed buildings or homes in conservation areas. It’s also worth considering your neighbours. While you don’t usually need their permission to install solar panels, keeping them informed out of courtesy is wise, especially if the installation might affect their property in any way.
Maximising available space
Once you’ve determined the best location for your solar panels, the next step is to maximise the available space. This involves balancing your energy needs with the space you have available. A typical domestic solar panel is about 1m x 2m in size. The number of panels you can fit will depend on your roof size and shape. Your installer can help you calculate the optimal number of panels for your space and energy requirements. When planning your installation, it’s worth thinking about the future. If you’re considering getting an electric car or switching to electric heating, you might want to install a larger system to accommodate your future energy needs.
Professional assessment
While this guide gives you a good starting point, nothing beats a professional assessment. A qualified and experienced solar installer, like Electrical Innovations (Derby) Ltd, can conduct a thorough site survey, looking at all the factors we’ve discussed and more. They’ll design and install your system to maximise efficiency and comply with all relevant regulations. They can also advise on the best equipment for your needs and budget.
How can Electrical Innovations help?
Every property is unique. What works for someone else might not be the best solution for you. So, it’s essential to get professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
That’s where we come in. From solar PV panels to battery storage systems, we can recommend, design and install the best solar system for your home and circumstances to help you save money on energy and reduce your environmental impact.
With our careful planning and expert installation, your solar panels can provide you with cleaner, cheaper energy for decades to come. So why wait? Give us a call today to discuss your options.
