What is the Best Angle For Solar Panels?

Key Takeaways

● Solar panel angle and direction directly impact energy output.
● In the UK, south-facing panels perform best.
● The ideal tilt is typically 35–40°, depending on your location.
● The sun shifts between seasons, so fixed panels aim for the best average.
● Roof-mounted systems are most common, but ground-mounted panels offer flexibility.
● A professional installer from Liverpool Heating can assess and recommend the best setup.

Why is the Angle of Solar Panels Important?

The way your solar panels are angled affects how directly the sunlight hits them. If the panels are too flat or too steep, they won’t catch the sunlight as well as they would when they are set at the correct angle.

Ideally, the panels should be tilted to match the position of the sun in the sky for your area — so they get the most sunlight during the busiest hours of the day. When the panels are properly angled, they can produce more energy and work more efficiently.

According to a study done by the University of York, they found that generally, over the course of a year, the best angle to have your solar panels stationed at is 39º, as shown in the graph below:

Does the Best Angle Change Depending on Your Location?

Yes – where you are located has a big impact on the best tilt angle for your solar panels. Usually, the further you are from the equator, the steeper the angle should be.

For example, a person living in southern Spain would need a less steep tilt compared to someone in northern Scotland. Also, local weather and typical sun positions throughout the year are important factors to consider when figuring out the best angle for your panels.

The Best Angles for Solar Panels by Location

Area Optimal tilt (from horizontal, year-round)
South East 35.9°
North West 36.8°
East 36.4°
North East 37.2°
East Midlands 36.6°
South West 35.8°
Yorkshire 36.9°
West Midlands 36.4°
Greater London 36°
Scotland 37.8°
Wales 36.3°
Northern Ireland 37.2°

Does This Change Throughout the Year?

Absolutely – the sun’s position in the sky shifts with the seasons. In winter, it sits lower, while in summer, it’s higher overhead. While adjustable panel systems can be tilted seasonally to follow the sun more precisely, most UK domestic systems are fixed.

Therefore, they’re usually set at an angle that offers the best average performance across the year rather than peak efficiency in just one season. Below, we have created a list of how this affects the most efficient orientation:

Which Direction Should My Solar Panels Face in the UK?

In the UK, south-facing panels generally offer the best performance. This orientation receives the most consistent and direct sunlight throughout the day, making it ideal for generating electricity.

That said, south-east and south-west facing panels can still produce good results, especially when your roof layout doesn’t allow for a full southern exposure.

How Does Direction Impact Efficiency?

The way your panels are positioned can greatly impact how well your system works. In the UK, panels that face south can produce up to 20% more energy compared to those facing east or west.

Panels that face north usually don’t produce as much energy and are generally not preferred unless there are no other options and you have a battery storage system. Choosing the right direction for your panels helps make sure they’re generating power when you need it most.

Where Can You Install Solar Panels?

Solar panels can be installed in a range of locations depending on your property type and space available. The two most common options are roof-mounted and ground-mounted installations.

Roof-Mounted Solar Panels

This is the most common way to install solar panels for homes. The panels are attached directly to the roof using brackets, usually following the slope of your roof.

It’s a space-efficient and affordable option, and when placed at the correct angle and facing the right way, it can work very well for many years.

But what if you have a flat roof? Luckily, this is no issue either! Having a flat roof may actually be an advantage, as it means we can angle your panels to ensure they see the optimal amount of sunlight year-round.

Ground-Mounted Solar Panels

Perfect for homes with small roof areas or roofs that aren’t ideally positioned. Ground-mounted solar systems give you more flexibility because the panels can be installed at the best angle and direction, no matter how your building is arranged.

They’re also easier to clean and maintain. However, they might need more space and could require permission from the authorities before installation.

Need Solar Installations? We’ve Got You Covered!

Thinking about installing solar panels? At Liverpool Heating, we offer professional and easy-to-arrange solar panel installations customised for your home and energy needs.

Whether you want to save money, lower your environmental impact, or increase your property’s value – we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get a quote. Our team can look at your property and help you choose the most efficient and affordable solar system.