Is It's Worth It to Tilt Solar Panels for Winter Production?

Optimal Tilt Angles

For maximum winter production, solar panels should be tilted to ensure direct sunlight hits the panels at the optimal angle. In the northern hemisphere, the optimal tilt angle is between 30 and 45 degrees, depending on your latitude. For example, in Seattle, Washington, with a latitude of 47.6°N, the optimal tilt angle is around 37 degrees. This angle allows for the most efficient sunlight absorption during the winter months when the sun is lower in the sky.

Calculating the Tilt Angle

To calculate the optimal tilt angle for your location, use the following formula: tilt angle (degrees) = (latitude - 23.5) + (latitude - 23.5) * (latitude / 60). This formula takes into account the sun’s declination angle and the latitude of your location. For example, if you’re in Anchorage, Alaska, with a latitude of 61.2°N, the optimal tilt angle would be around 55 degrees. However, this is not recommended, as it can lead to shading and reduced efficiency.

Practical Considerations

When adjusting the tilt angle of your solar panels, consider the following factors: panel orientation, shading, and wind resistance. Make sure the panels are securely attached to the mounting system and that the tilt angle is consistent across all panels. If you have a large solar array, it may be more practical to use a fixed tilt angle and adjust the panels’ orientation to compensate for the changing sun angle.