The Tilt angle for solar modules is one of the decisive variables for the efficiency of photovoltaic systems. The energy yield can be maximized by adjusting the tilt angle correctly. Factors such as geographical location, terrain profile or roof type and orientation of the modules play a key role here. An optimally adjusted angle ensures that the modules capture the sun's rays in the best possible way and thus enable maximum energy yield.
In Germany, the ideal angle of inclination varies depending on the geographical location, the orientation of the system and the individual conditions on site. In general, an angle of 30 to 40 degrees as optimal in order to maximize the annual yield. The regional location plays a key role here: in Northern Germanywhere the sun is flatter, solar modules should be positioned somewhat steeper, for example between 35 and 45 degrees. In Southern Germany On the other hand, a shallower angle of 30 to 40 degrees is sufficient, as the solar radiation is stronger here.
Inclination angle of the solar modules with southern orientation
A south-facing orientation is considered classic and particularly effective for photovoltaic systems, as the modules can make direct use of the maximum solar radiation. For optimum energy yield, the recommended angle of inclination is 30 to 35 degrees. This orientation enables particularly high yields at midday, when the sun is at its highest point. Photovoltaic modules can also work efficiently on steeper roof pitches, provided there is no shading from neighboring buildings or other obstacles. In such cases, the existing roof angle is often used to avoid additional installation costs.
In most cases, when installing south-facing modules, the appropriate angle of inclination can only be achieved with larger and more complex substructures. In addition, south-facing modules with a steep tilt angle run the risk of mutual shadingso that the distances between the module rows must be greater. On the same surface area fewer modules and the overall system generates less yield. In addition, electricity production is more uneven with south-facing systems: it reaches peak values at midday, while yields are lower in the morning and evening hours. This reduces the proportion of self-consumption if the electricity requirement is predominantly outside of midday.
Tilt angle of the solar modules for east-west orientation
An east-west orientation is particularly useful on flat roofs. The optimum angle of inclination for solar modules with this orientation is between 5 and 15 degrees. Shallow angles are particularly advantageous as they make optimum use of the solar radiation in the morning (east) and afternoon (west). This orientation distributes electricity production more evenly throughout the day, which is ideal for companies with high self-consumption. Instead of generating peaks at midday, as with a south-facing orientation, an east-west orientation provides continuous energy that better matches typical consumption patterns.
Another advantage of flat angles is the More efficient use of the available roof area. On flat roofs in particular, modules with an east-west orientation can be placed closer together, as the space requirement is reduced due to the lower inclination. This allows the installed module output to be increased on a smaller area without causing mutual shading. In addition, the more even energy production means that smaller and more cost-effective inverters can be used, which reduces the overall costs of the system.
Comparison between south orientation and east-west orientation
While the south-facing orientation aims to maximize energy production, the east-west orientation enables a more economical and everyday-friendly use of the energy generated.
| South-facing | East-west orientation | |
| Tilt angle | 30-40 degrees | 5-15 degrees |
| Daily yields | Higher yields at lunchtime | Consistent yields throughout the day |
| Land use | Less efficient on flat roofs due to shading | More efficient use thanks to closer positioning of the solar module rows |
| Own consumption | Lower self-consumption due to lower yield in the morning and afternoon | Higher self-consumption due to more balanced production throughout the day |
Factors influencing the tilt angle of the solar modules
In addition to the geographical location of a solar installation, where the optimum angle of inclination of the solar modules depends primarily on the latitude, as well as the roof pitch or topographical conditions, it is also important to consider soiling and shading. Modules should be positioned so that they are not obscured by trees, buildings, electricity pylons, towers or other obstacles. In addition, environmental factors such as Snow or Dirt the angle of inclination: angles of 12 degrees or more promote self-cleaning by rain and reduce the snow load. The ideal alignment of PV systems must therefore always be calculated individually in order to achieve maximum yields.
Conclusion
The tilt angle for solar modules plays a central role in optimizing the energy generation of photovoltaic systems. In Germany, the angle can be between 10 and 40 degrees, depending on the location and orientation. A south-facing orientation maximizes the energy yield at midday and is particularly suitable for PV systems that are designed for maximum feed-in to the grid or have Large-scale battery storage have. The east-west orientation, on the other hand, scores points with more even electricity production throughout the day and enables more efficient use of space, especially on flat roofs. Both variants have specific advantages that should be taken into account depending on individual requirements and consumption patterns. Careful planning of the angle of inclination and orientation helps to make the most of the solar system's potential and maximize self-consumption.