Tilt & Azimuth Optimizer
Find the optimal panel angle and orientation for your GPS location.
About
Returns the tilt (degrees from horizontal) and azimuth (degrees from south, or north in the southern hemisphere) that maximise annual yield at your coordinates, using the PVGIS optimum solver.
How it works
- Enter latitude and longitude.
- The PVGIS solver searches the tilt × azimuth space for the highest annual kWh/kWp.
- Results assume an unshaded horizon. Adjust manually for tree or building obstruction.
Frequently asked questions
Should I just use 'tilt = latitude'?+
Close but not optimal. The classical rule maximises yield at equinox; modern PVGIS optima account for diffuse light dominance in cloudy regions and seasonal load patterns. Optimal tilt is usually 5–15° flatter than latitude in northern Europe and 5–10° steeper in equatorial regions.
What if I can't face true south?+
An azimuth deviation of ±30° (SE or SW) costs only 3–5% of annual yield. ±45° costs 8–12%. East- or west-only orientations cost 15–25% but produce a flatter daily curve, sometimes better for self-consumption.
Should I use a tracker?+
Single-axis trackers add 15–25% yield for ground-mount commercial. Two-axis trackers add 30–40% but are mechanically complex. For residential, fixed mount is almost always better economics — the extra panels you'd buy for tracker cost are cheaper than the tracker.
Does optimal tilt change between summer and winter?+
Yes — winter optimum is ~latitude + 15°, summer is ~latitude − 15°. Adjustable tilt mounts are rarely worth the labour; a fixed angle 5–10° flatter than annual optimum maximises winter performance for off-grid use.