Unlocking Mexico's solar potential
With an abundant solar resource and growing environmental awareness, Mexico is uniquely positioned to harness solar energy as a clean and sustainable source of electricity. However, to unlock the full potential of the Mexican sun, it is crucial to understand the importance of solar panel inclination and orientation.
Why is the inclination and orientation of solar panels important?
Solar panels work best when they are exposed to direct sunlight. This means that the inclination and orientation of the panels play a key role in their efficiency and performance.
Inclination refers to the angle at which the solar panels are installed with respect to the ground. In Mexico, where latitude varies significantly, the optimum tilt may differ by location. For example, in regions closer to the equator, such as the Yucatan Peninsula, a flatter tilt may be more effective, while in the north of the country, a steeper tilt may maximize sunlight capture.
Orientation refers to the direction in which the solar panels are pointing. In the northern hemisphere, as is the case in Mexico, solar panels are typically oriented towards the south to maximize sunlight throughout the day. However, in some specific situations, such as in areas with significant shading, it may be necessary to adjust the orientation to optimize performance.
For more details you can read CFE SPECIFICATION G0100-04
Optimizing solar panel inclination in northern Mexico: practical examples
In arid, sunny northern Mexico, where temperatures can be extreme and the sun shines brightly for much of the year, optimizing the tilt of solar panels is critical to maximize their performance and efficiency. If you want to explore more about how tilt and orientation affect the⚡generation, check out our entry on solar panel efficiency. For example, here are some recommended tilt angles for the Sonora and Nuevo Leon regions:
Sonora:
- Hermosillo City: Known for its desert climate and high temperatures, Hermosillo is located in an ideal position for solar energy generation. In this region, an inclination of around 25 to 30 degrees is recommended for solar panels. This angle helps maximize solar light capture throughout the year, efficiently balancing energy production in different seasons.
- Puerto Peñasco: Located on the northwest coast of Sonora, Puerto Peñasco enjoys sunny and warm weather most of the year. For this coastal region, a slightly lower inclination, around 20 to 25 degrees, may be more suitable to maximize direct sunlight and minimize the impact of wind and humidity.
Nuevo León:
- Monterrey: As one of the largest and most developed cities in northern Mexico, Monterrey benefits from a semi-arid climate with high solar incidence. Here, an inclination of approximately 20 to 25 degrees is recommended for solar panels. This angle helps optimize solar light capture throughout the year, thus maximizing energy production.
- Apodaca City: Located in the metropolitan area of Monterrey, Apodaca City experiences similar climatic conditions to its larger neighbor. For this urban region, a similar inclination of around 20 to 25 degrees is ideal to ensure optimal performance of solar panels, even on cloudy or partially shaded days.
To ensure your system is performing at its best, explore our performance monitoring services.
At Peak Energy, we believe in a future powered by clean, renewable energy. With our solar panel solutions in Hermosillo, Guaymas, San Carlos and Caborca, you’re one step closer to making that vision a reality. From initial planning to meticulous installation, our expert team is committed to providing you with a superior solar system. Plus, with our specialized maintenance service, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected and your energy is in good hands.