South-West Facing Solar

By Home Solar Guide Team||guide
Independently written | Plain-English guide
South-west roof
South-west roofs: 95% of optimal output. Slightly more afternoon generation.

Find the right system size for your roof

Panel count depends on your electricity use, roof space and direction — not on a rule of thumb. Get a recommended size and what it should cost.

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Orientation
SW roof
Afternoon
Still great

Find the right system size for your roof

Panel count depends on your electricity use, roof space and direction — not on a rule of thumb. Get a recommended size and what it should cost.

Size My System

Is a south-west roof good for solar?

A south-west facing roof is excellent for solar: OUTPUT: 95% of a due-south roof — only 5% less. This is negligible and should NOT put you off installing. ADVANTAGE: slightly more afternoon generation (peak 1-4pm instead of 11am-2pm). This is actually BETTER for: (1) EV charging when you return from work. (2) Evening cooking on an induction hob. (3) Running the dishwasher/washing machine after school. (4) Self-consumption if you're home in the afternoon. A 4kW south-west system generates: 3,325-3,990 kWh/yr (vs 3,500-4,200 for due south). Savings: £550-£1,050/yr. The 5% difference is worth approximately £30-£50/yr — trivial over a 25-year lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related: Home Heating Systems

Solar panels are most powerful when combined with an efficient heating system. Heat pumps use solar-generated electricity to heat your home at 300-400% efficiency — making them the ideal partner for solar.

heat pump running costs in the UK

Heat pumps use electricity at 300-400% efficiency, making them ideal partners for solar.

From our sister site Home Heat Pump Guide

Find the right system size for your roof

Panel count depends on your electricity use, roof space and direction — not on a rule of thumb. Get a recommended size and what it should cost.

Size My System

Free calculator. No contact details required to see your result.