Can I install PV if my roof doesn't face south?

Can I install PV if my roof doesn't face south?

24-11-2023

I. Understanding the principle of photovoltaic power generation system


Photovoltaic power generation systems utilize solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity. In solar panels, semiconductor 

material absorbs sunlight and converts it into electricity. This electrical energy can be stored and used for household electricity or 

sold on the grid.

flexible solar panel

II. Effect of Roof Orientation on Photovoltaic Power Generation System


Ideally, solar panels should face south. This is because the south is the direction in which the sun rises and sets, and therefore the 

sun shines the longest in the south, maximizing the amount of electricity generated by the PV system. However, is it still possible 

to install a PV system if the roof does not face south?


In some areas, especially at high latitudes in the northern hemisphere, where the sun's altitude angle is high during the summer 

months, a south-facing roof can receive more sunlight. However, at lower latitudes, where the sun's altitude angle is lower, a south-

facing roof may not be the best choice. In this case, east- or west-facing roofs can still receive some sunlight and have the potential 

for installing PV systems.

Solar PV Panels


III.he roof does not face south solution


1.Adjust the angle of solar charging panels

If the roof does not face south, you can maximize the amount of sunlight absorbed by adjusting the angle of the solar charging 

panels. Generally, solar panels can be adjusted to face the direction where the sun shines the longest.


2. Use tracking photovoltaic power generation system


A tracking PV system is a type of PV system that automatically tracks the direction of sunlight. This system maximizes the amount 

of power generated by the solar panels, but it is also relatively costly.


3. Increase the number of panels


If the roof does not face south, you can increase the amount of electricity generated by the PV system by increasing the number of 

panels. Although this will increase the cost, in some areas, government subsidies for installing PV power systems can also offset so-

me of the cost.

mwt solar panel

In summary, if the roof does not face south, it is still possible to install a photovoltaic power generation system. By adjusting the 

angle of the solar panels, using a tracking PV power generation system or increasing the number of panels, the power generation 

capacity of the PV power generation system can be maximized.


In addition, government subsidies for installing PV power systems and rising electricity prices have further motivated households 

to install PV power systems. Therefore, even if your roof does not face south, you do not have to worry about not being able to 

enjoy clean, renewable electricity. As long as you choose the right PV power system installation solution according to the actual 

situation, you can effectively improve the system's power generation efficiency and extend its service life. At the same time, rea-

sonable maintenance and upkeep can also make the PV power generation system more useful in the future!


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