Photovoltaic panels on northern roofs

This maximizes the energy production over the course of the year, through both summer and winter. Sometimes, however, the homeowner will want to add modules on the north-facing roof. This may be for aesthetic purposes, or sometimes because the south-facing rooftop isn't fit for solar. The most common rule-of-thumb is that you simply can't do that.

Solar PV panels are most effective on a broad, north-facing roof in South Africa. An easy way to find out if a solar installation would be worthwhile for your roof is to find your house on Google Maps in satellite view, and compare it with the compass icon that should appear on the lower right of your screen.

Aside from roof orientation, the roof pitch and shading also play a significant role in solar panel efficiency. The best angle for solar panels in the UK is between 30° and 40° and, ideally, your solar panels won't be obstructed by any shade. Understanding these variables can help homeowners decide if their north-facing solar array is feasible.

A roof pitch of 41 degrees facing due south with no shading is usually required to achieve 100% effectiveness. While most experts recommend south-facing solar panels for optimal performance, north-facing panels can still be viable. The challenges associated with north-facing roofs can be overcome with proper orientation and avoiding shade.

With electricity prices rising, north facing solar panels are now often worth the money. Long ago, when the year was 2010, electricity was cheaper than it is now and solar panels were way more expensive. Installing solar just about made financial sense on a south facing roof. But installing on a north facing roof made absolutely no sense.

While most experts recommend south-facing solar panels for optimal performance, north-facing panels can still be viable. The challenges associated with north-facing roofs can be overcome with proper orientation and avoiding shade. All these benefits make the system expected to pay for itself in less than six years.