Solar Resource, Tilt & Azimuth
PV output depends on how much sunlight reaches the modules and how directly it hits the surface.
- Tilt: angle from horizontal
- Azimuth: compass direction the array faces
Big picture
- In the Northern Hemisphere, arrays often face generally south for strong annual production (specifics depend on site goals).
- Steeper tilt can favor winter production; lower tilt can favor summer production and shed less wind load (site-dependent).
- Flat roofs often use racking to achieve a target tilt while considering wind and roof constraints.