Plugin solar kits generate electricity by exposing solar panels to solar radiation. The longer you expose the panel to direct sunshine, the more electricity it produces. A panel's orientation (or azimuth) directly affects the amount of sun exposure the panel receives. In the northern hemisphere:
A southern orientation will give you the longest sunshine exposure during the day, making your kit produce the most amount of electricity.
An eastern orientation will generate power earlier in the mornings, but stop around lunchtime.
A western orientation will not start until lunchtime, but will last until the very end of the day.
Other factors influencing the amount of electricity your plugin solar kit produces are:
The inclination (or slope) of the panels. In Europe a 30-35 degree inclination is generally best.
An operating temperature of 25° degrees Celsius is the ideal production temperature for solar panels, although the panels can operate even at extreme temperatures between -40 and +85 degrees Celsius, just producing less efficiently.
The amount of sunshine hours is also key. The presence of clouds or shade can reduce electricity production, but do not eliminate it. Even on a cloudy day your solar kit will produce for you.
In our Savings Calculator you can check how much a solar kit can save on your power bill, setting all of the above variables according to your home’s situation.