Solar Panel Placement In Zimbabwe

Maximizing Sunlight Exposure for Optimal Performance

Switching to solar power is a great way to cut electricity costs, reduce reliance on the national grid, and contribute to a sustainable future in Zimbabwe. However, for solar panels to produce the most energy, they need to be carefully placed to capture maximum sunlight. This guide from explains how to position your solar panels effectively, taking into account the unique climate and conditions in Zimbabwe.

1.Why Sunlight Exposure Matters
The more sunlight your solar panels capture, the more energy they produce, which leads to:

  • Higher Energy Output: Direct sunlight for the longest possible hours means you get more power from your panels.
  • Cost Savings: With more energy from your panels, your savings on power costs increase, especially during sunny seasons.
  • Long-Term Benefits: Effective placement ensures that your solar system provides the best performance for years, maximizing your investment.

2.Orientation: Choosing the Right Direction
The direction your solar panels face is crucial for capturing sunlight:

  • North-Facing Panels: Since Zimbabwe is in the Southern Hemisphere, panels should face north to capture the most sunlight during the day.
  • East and West Positions: East-facing panels will catch the morning sun, while west-facing ones capture afternoon sun. However, they generally receive less overall sunlight compared to a north-facing setup.

3.Tilt Angle: Setting the Right Angle for Zimbabwe’s Latitude
The tilt of your solar panels affects how much sunlight they get over the year. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Latitude-Based Tilt: Zimbabwe’s latitude is about 20 degrees south, so a tilt angle of around 20 degrees can be ideal for fixed panels, ensuring good sunlight exposure throughout the year. The 20-degree tilt angle is a general guideline and may vary depending on the specific location within Zimbabwe.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: Zimbabwe experiences sunny winters and wet summers. Adjusting the angle a bit for each season can be helpful, but for most installations, a fixed angle works just fine.
  • Steeper Tilt for Rain Runoff: A slightly steeper angle can help rain wash off dust, dirt, and leaves, which is especially useful during the rainy season. However, the effectiveness of rain in cleaning solar panels depends on several factors like the intensity and duration of rain. and the type of dirt accumulated on the panels.

4.Location: Choosing the Best Spot for Panels on Your Property
The location you choose for solar panels matters as much as the angle. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Avoid Shading: Ensure that trees, nearby buildings, or other obstacles don’t cast shadows over the panels, especially during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Even partial shading can reduce solar panel efficiency by up to 30%, making it crucial to carefully select a location with minimal obstructions
  • Roof Suitability: If you have a roof with a north-facing slope, this can be ideal for panel installation. However, flat roofs also work well, as panels can be mounted on angled racks.
  • Ground Mounting: If roof space isn’t suitable or available, consider ground-mounted panels, which allow flexibility in placement but require open space to avoid shading.

5.Advanced Tracking Systems
Solar tracking systems, which move to follow the sun, can improve energy production, though they are often more practical for larger setups:

  • Single-Axis Trackers: These trackers allow panels to follow the sun from east to west, potentially increasing energy capture by about 20%.
  • Dual-Axis Trackers: These systems track both daily and seasonal sun movement for even higher energy capture but are typically suited for larger commercial installations due to their cost.

6.Considering Zimbabwe’s Climate and Environment
Local weather patterns and environmental factors can affect solar panel performance in Zimbabwe:

  • Heat Management: Zimbabwe’s hot climate can slightly reduce solar panel efficiency. Raising panels off the surface to allow airflow underneath can help keep them cooler.
  • Dust, Rain, and Leaves: During dry seasons, dust can build up on panels, while rain in the wet season can help wash it away. Placing panels in easily accessible areas can make maintenance easier.
  • Rainy vs. Sunny Seasons: In the rainy season, solar systems should still be positioned to capture the most sunlight when available. Planning for seasonal variability ensures the best year-round performance.
    Why work with Professionals?
  • Solar panel placement can be complex, so consulting professionals like Trogon Energy ensures you get the best results:
  • Detailed Site Assessment– Trogon Energy’s experts conduct thorough site assessments to identify optimal locations and orientations for your panels, ensuring maximum output.
  • Custom Solutions–Our team designs solutions tailored to your specific location, climate, and energy needs, using industry-leading techniques.
  • Maintenance and Support– We’ll provide guidance on keeping your system in top shape, with tips for cleaning and maintaining panels so they keep performing at their best.

Tilted solar panels

Our team cleaning solar panels