Solar Panel Angle Calculator
Find the optimal tilt angle for your solar panels based on your latitude and desired season. A proper tilt increases solar energy production and system efficiency.
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How to Use the Solar Panel Angle Calculator
This calculator helps you determine the best angle to tilt your solar panels based on your location and seasonal sunlight patterns. Correct panel orientation ensures that the panels receive the maximum possible solar radiation.
Inputs Explained
- Latitude: Your position on the Earth’s surface in degrees. You can find it using GPS, Google Maps, or weather apps. For example:
- Los Angeles, USA: 34.05° N
- London, UK: 51.5° N
- Dubai, UAE: 25.2° N
- Season: The time of year you want to optimize for:
- Year-Round (Fixed): Suitable for systems that don’t adjust seasonally
- Summer: Maximize generation during peak sun months
- Winter: Increase exposure when the sun is lower
- Spring/Fall: Balance of efficiency in shoulder seasons
Calculation Formulas
Optimal tilt angle depends on your latitude and the time of year. Here's how the calculator works:
- Fixed year-round: Angle = Latitude × 0.9 (for latitudes under 25°)
- Summer: Angle = Latitude − 15°
- Winter: Angle = Latitude + 15°
- Spring/Fall: Angle = Latitude
These formulas are based on NASA and PV system modeling recommendations and are widely used for rooftop installations around the world.
Why Panel Angle Matters
The angle at which solar panels are mounted determines how much sunlight they receive. Proper tilt helps with:
- Maximizing energy yield throughout the day
- Reducing panel soiling by encouraging water runoff
- Minimizing shading and self-shading losses
- Improving payback period of solar systems
Examples of Tilt Optimization
Let’s look at a few cases:
- Dubai (Latitude 25°):
- Summer: 10°
- Winter: 40°
- Fixed year-round: 22°
- Berlin (Latitude 52°):
- Summer: 37°
- Winter: 67°
- Fixed: 47°
- Sydney (Latitude -33°): (Southern Hemisphere — same logic applies)
- Summer: 18°
- Winter: 48°
- Fixed: 30°
How to Adjust Panel Tilt
- Adjustable Mounts: Use tilt brackets to change angles 2–4 times per year.
- Manual Adjustment: Best for off-grid setups where performance matters most.
- Fixed Tilt: Most residential roofs use a single fixed angle for simplicity.
Seasonal Output Variation
Sun position changes dramatically throughout the year. In winter, the sun is lower in the sky, requiring steeper tilt. A summer-optimized tilt produces 20–30% less in winter. Seasonal optimization can increase output by 10–20% annually.
Important Considerations
- Roof slope and direction affect mounting possibilities.
- Local building codes may limit panel tilt or height.
- Flat roof systems often use adjustable racking.
- Panel orientation (azimuth) is equally important — panels should face true south (or true north in the Southern Hemisphere).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use this calculator in the Southern Hemisphere?
Yes. The formulas apply to both hemispheres — just use negative latitude (e.g., -33° for Sydney).
What if I can’t adjust my panel angle?
Use the "Year-Round (Fixed)" option to get the best all-season compromise.
How do I find my latitude?
Search your city on Google Maps or use a GPS/location app. Latitude is usually the first number shown in decimal degrees.
Should I optimize for winter or summer?
If you're using batteries or are off-grid, winter optimization helps during the lower-production season. For grid-tied homes, a balanced (spring/fall) or fixed tilt is often best.