Photovoltaic panel horizontal and vertical comparison table

Are solar panels horizontal or vertical?

You’ve probably seen some solar systems where the panels are installed in vertical orientation, and others in a horizontal orientation. This might leave you wondering, why are they different and does it matter if solar panels are horizontal or vertical? The orientation of your solar panels doesn’t affect the production of your system.

Should a solar panel be installed horizontal or vertical?

However, it is more efficient to have a consecutive block of solar panels installed using the same orientation— either vertical or horizontal. If there is a break in your roof, or you have room for one more solar panel, then your solar contractor can install the solar panel to fit the space.

Are horizontal solar panels a good choice for your home?

Depending on the climate, your roof’s construction, and your solar energy needs, horizontal solar panel installation may be the right choice for your home. The amount of direct sunlight could impact the direction in which your solar panels are installed.

Can solar panels be installed vertically on a roof?

The size of solar panels makes them well suited to be installed vertically on most roofs. Of course, not every home—or roof—is designed the same. Depending on the climate, your roof’s construction, and your solar energy needs, horizontal solar panel installation may be the right choice for your home.

Are vertical solar panels a good option?

Vertical solar panels can be a better choice in certain situations. For instance, if you live in a climate with heavy snowfall, the snow will slide down the panel when it is installed vertically. Similarly, if your house is surrounded by trees that shed leaves or acorns, vertical solar panels might be preferred to prevent debris accumulation.

Are photovoltaic panels optimal tilt angles?

This study provides estimates of photovoltaic (PV) panel optimal tilt angles for all countries worldwide. It then estimates the incident solar radiation normal to either tracked or optimally tilted panels relative to horizontal panels globally. Optimal tilts are derived from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts program.