Angling catches the sun No matter what type of solar energy technology you choose, your system will work most efficiently when the solar panels are perpendicular to the sun. The challenge is tracking the sun as the seasons change. Trackers improve performance Mounted on a tracker, your solar electric system automatically follows the sun through the sky all day, all year. In Minnesota, a solar electric system on a tracker can generate 15% more electricity than if it was stationary. Tilting by hand's worth the work If a mechanical tracker won't work for you, mount your solar electric panels on an adjustable rack. Changing the angles by hand a few times a year to match the sun's seasonal height in the sky is simple and takes just a few minutes. Point thermal systems towards winter sun Once solar hot water systems are installed they can't be moved. Mount them at a 45- to 60-degree angle to catch the low winter sun. 
(Photo by MRES) Solar electric systems are used year-round. |
(Photo by MRES) Solar heating systems are used primarily in the winter. |
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