Where should I point my solar panels?

The “South” Rule

If you read American websites, they scream: “POINT THEM SOUTH!” Because they live in the Northern Hemisphere. The sun is always slightly south of them. In the Philippines? We are near the equator.

The Reality

1. South is still best (usually). Even here, the sun spends a bit more time in the southern sky during “Amihan” season (which is when clouds are lighter). So slightly South (5-10 degrees) is good.

2. East vs West If you can’t do South… East is better than West. Why? Mornings are clearer. Afternoons have thunderstorms. If your panels face West, they might get peak sun when it’s raining.

3. Flat vs Tilted “Self-cleaning” is the priority. If you lay them flat (0 degrees), dust gathers. Bird poop stays. You need at least 10-15 degrees tilt so the rain washes the dirt off. Dirt = 20% less power.

Summary

Don’t overthink the angle. Avoid shadows (trees, neighbors). Clean them once a month. And buy a bigger inverter than you think you need.