Is south-east or south-west better?

Virtually identical (both 95%). South-east generates slightly more in the morning; south-west slightly more in the afternoon. Choose based on when you use the most electricity.

Can I install on east and west?

Yes — an east-west split uses both roof slopes, generates across more of the day, and often fits more panels total. Each panel produces 80-85% of south-facing output.

Best Direction for Solar Panels

By Home Solar Guide Team|Updated 20 March 2026|educational

Independently written | Plain-English guide

Best direction for UK solar panels — South is optimal — but east/west still delivers 80-85% of maximum output.

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Which direction should solar panels face?

Best direction for UK solar panels: South (100% optimal output). South-east/south-west (95%). East (80-85%). West (80-85%). North-east/north-west (60-65%). North (55-60% — generally not recommended). Any direction from south-east to south-west is excellent. East and west are very good. Only north is significantly reduced. Do NOT let a non-south direction stop you — east/west panels still deliver 80-85% of output with strong financial returns.