The Perfect angle: How to maximize your solar panels’ efficiency

At Robinsun, we offer a wide variety of mounting options for installation on all types of surfaces. Each one has unique features and different tilt angles. In this blog, we’ll discuss the various tilt angles used in solar installations, which ones maximize energy production, and whether they should be adjusted according to the seasons of the year.

Different angles installations

We have mounts for every installation, with different angles.

• 20° Our ValkBox3 mount, easy to install, can be used on flat roofs, terraces, gardens, pergolas or garages.
• 10°- 60° Our new wall mount is adjustable and can be settled between 10 and 60°. Adjust the extension brackets to the length that you want.
• 60° Our 60° mount is ideal for any kind of wall or facades, easy to install.
• 90° Balcony and 90° mounts, both options have vertical installations avoiding the sail effect of the wind, providing a robust and secure installation saving space.
• Tile Roof We have two roof installations options, bolted and with a tile hook. In both cases the angle installations depend on your roof inclination, commonly between 20 and 35 degrees.
• Basic This kit comes without a mount, the inclination depends on you.

Best angles

Across most regions in south Europe, the optimal angle generally falls between 30° and 35°. This range ensures that the panels capture the maximum possible sunlight throughout the day. However, the precise optimal angle can differ based on your specific location. Check our savings calculator for more specific information. According to PV GIS, the yearly energy production of a P800 QN Solar (+30%) solar kit located at 36.388, -6.195 (Cádiz) with different angles is as follows:

• 25° 1978.92 kWh
• 30° 1994.47 kWh
• 35° 1997.45 kWh
• 40° 1988.18 kWh

The range of production of a solar panel can vary depending on its angle of installation and orientation. Here's an estimated example illustrating how solar panels perform when installed facing south in different tilt angles, from a flat, horizontal 0° to a fully vertical 90°

Seasons

It’s also important to consider that the optimal solar panel angle may change with the seasons as the sun's position shifts throughout the year, as we explained in a previous blog about the winter solstice. In summer, a tilt of around 20° is most effective, while in winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, an angle closer to 40° is ideal.

According to PV GIS, the energy production of a P800 QN Solar (+30%) solar kit located at 36.388, -6.195 (Cádiz) at different angles during different seasons is as follows:

• 20° summer (Jul) 210 kWh
• 35° summer (Jul) 195 kWh
• 20° winter (Dec) 111 kWh
• 35° winter (Dec) 132 kWh

Make the most of our new wall mount, designed with adjustable angles to adapt perfectly to changing seasons. For those who opt to make these adjustments, it’s recommended to do so twice a year. This should be done at the summer/winter equinox, 50% between the 2 solstices, to align with the sun’s highest and lowest positions in the sky.

Adjusting the tilt of your panels seasonally can improve overall energy production. However, seasonal adjustments may not be an option for most homes, as they have some fixed installations. Our savings calculator does not take into account changing angles for example.

New technologies

It's not just about the angle. Thanks to the latest cutting-edge solar panel technology with N-type cells, you can generate more energy using the same amount of sunlight. These cells enable electricity production to begin earlier and continue to produce later, optimizing energy efficiency and output every day.

Bonus trick

There is a way to improve your production even more. If you really want to take full advantage of an installation and go further with the production tricks, the QN Solar bifacial can produce up to 30% more energy if you know how to use it. Place the solar panels with a reflective surface in the back and you can absorb sunlight on both sides, producing more than 100%.

Conclusions

Your kit already produces plenty of energy in Southern Europe. If you want to super-optimize, adjust the angle twice a year. Otherwise, just sit back and enjoy the free solar power! Check the calculator and focus on your installation to make the most of your production. If you have any other questions, contact us via email, WhatsApp or call us directly.