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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/solar-pvw-azimuth

NREL's PVWatts manual lists what default azimuth for a fixed array in the northern hemisphere?

180 degrees points the array south.

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  1. 0 degrees
  2. 90 degrees
  3. 180 degrees ✔

Why: Azimuth is the compass direction the panels face. 180 degrees is due south, toward the sun's path for northern homes.

Huh, didn't know that: In the southern hemisphere the default is 0 degrees, facing north.

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References

Answer: 180 degrees. Azimuth is the compass direction the panels face. 180 degrees is due south, toward the sun's path for northern homes.

  1. NREL: PVWatts Version 5 Manual www.nrel.gov/docs/fy14osti/62641.pdf
    180◦ in northern hemisphere, 0◦ in southern hemisphere
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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