Solar Panel Angle Calculator
Calculate the optimal tilt angle for solar panels based on your latitude and the season.
°N
°
Optimal Annual Tilt
37.9 °
Winter Tilt (steeper)52.9 °
Summer Tilt (flatter)22.9 °
Adjusted Tilt37.9 °
Optimal Annual Tilt vs Latitude
Optimal Solar Panel Tilt Angle
The ideal tilt angle for solar panels depends primarily on latitude. Panels should face the equator (south in the Northern Hemisphere) at a tilt that maximizes annual energy capture.
Formula
Optimal Tilt = Latitude x 0.87 + 3.1°
This regression approximation works well for latitudes between 25° and 55°. Steepen by 15° in winter and flatten by 15° in summer for seasonal optimization. Adjustable mounts that change tilt seasonally can gain 5-10% more annual energy.
Example Calculation
Solar panels at 40°N latitude.
- 01Optimal annual tilt = 40 x 0.87 + 3.1 = 37.9°
- 02Winter tilt = 37.9 + 15 = 52.9°
- 03Summer tilt = 37.9 - 15 = 22.9°