South-facing roofs
A well-oriented south-facing array typically captures more of the available solar resource over the day.
Home›What is the best roof direction for solar panels?
HEY SOLAR KNOWLEDGE HUBWhat is the best roof direction for solar panels?
In the UK, an unshaded south-facing roof is usually strongest for total annual generation, but east- and west-facing roofs can still be useful and may spread generation into morning or afternoon periods.
THE SHORT ANSWER
In the UK, an unshaded south-facing roof is usually strongest for total annual generation, but east- and west-facing roofs can still be useful and may spread generation into morning or afternoon periods.
East and west can still work
East-facing panels favour morning generation; west-facing panels favour later-day generation. This can sometimes align well with household demand.
Direction is not the whole answer
Shading, usable area, pitch, roof condition and electricity consumption can matter as much as compass direction.
North-facing roofs
They generally receive less useful irradiance in the UK. A designer should model the actual roof rather than relying on a blanket rule.
HOW WE HANDLE THE DETAIL
HEY Solar keeps technical and financial claims tied to the assumptions that make them true. Guidance is reviewed against authoritative UK sources and property-specific decisions belong in a survey and design.
Knowledge Hub review: September 2026.FROM RESEARCH TO REAL PROPERTY
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A quotation can use the actual roof, electricity use and project requirements rather than generic assumptions.