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What’s the Best Solar Panel Location for My Business?

5/4/2023

If you're a business owner looking to reduce your energy costs and embrace sustainability, solar panels may be a smart investment for you. However, installing solar panels is not as simple as slapping them on any old surface and hoping for the best.


The location of your panels is crucial for maximizing energy efficiency. In this blog, we'll provide you with some key factors to consider when determining the best solar panel location for your business, so you can confidently harness the power of the sun. 

What''s the Best Location for My Solar Panels?

Simply put, the “best” location for solar panel placement depends on a combination of variables. Here''s a few you ought to consider: 

1. Solar Panel Orientation


Solar panel orientation refers to the direction in which the panel faces—north, south, east, or west. Generally speaking, it's recommended to align them with true direction instead of magnetic poles, as east or west facing panels produce around 20% less energy. For optimal sun exposure and electricity production, buildings north of the equator should face true south and buildings south of the equator should face true north.

2. Solar Panel Angle

On the other hand, solar panel angle is the vertical tilt of the panels, which varies based on geographic location and time of year. Simply put, the angle of the panels will increase as you move away from the equator. For example, areas closer to the equator, like SoCal and Arizona, require less tilt. For areas farther from the equator, like New York and Michigan, solar panels require more tilt due to the lower position of the sun in the sky.

Key Factors Affecting Solar Panel Location 

Looking to get the most out of your solar panels? Here''s a secret, it's not just about the equipment you use or the installer you hire.


  • Roof Angle: First things first, you''ll want to assess your roof's angle. Depending on how steep or flat your commercial roof is, it could be challenging to install the solar panels at the right angle. If your roof is too steep, traditional mounting systems might not work. If it''s too flat, you might need a specialized mounting system to get the right angle. As a helpful tip, avoid installing solar panels flat on a low-angled roof, because they won't produce nearly as much energy.


  • Building Latitude: When it comes to solar panel location, the latitude of your building is another important factor to consider. The optimal angle for solar panels is generally around the same angle as your business'' latitude, which is between 30 and 45 degrees for most people in the United States. Placing solar panels at this angle helps ensure you receive the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the year, which means you'll get the most energy and save the most money.


  • Time of Year: The time of year can also affect how well your solar panels work. During the winter months, the sun is lower in the sky, so it's harder for your solar panels to capture sunlight and produce energy. To help with this, consider placing them at a steeper angle than your latitude, as this helps compensate for the lower sunlight levels.

When Placing Solar Panels, Which Is More Important: Angle or Orientation? 


When it comes to installing solar panels, the angle and orientation are two essential factors to consider. But which one is more important? The truth is, both play a crucial role in your solar panel system's energy production and efficiency. With that said, if you had to choose between one or the other, orientation may be more important, as it determines how much sunlight your solar panels receive throughout the day.

Don't Gamble on Your Solar Angle: Let Pacifico Power Help You Get It Right

Ready to install solar panels on your business? Can''t tell what angle works the best? Good news! Pacifico Power offers free solar feasibility assessments. This is a valuable tool that can help you make informed decisions about your solar energy system and ensure that you're getting the most out of your investment. Contact us today, and let''s take the first step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.