91% of residential solar panels face the wrong way at peak hours

Does your roof face south?

That's one of the first questions you'll be asked if you're considering installing solar panels on your home.

For good reason: Photovoltaic panels that capture the southern sun generate the most electricity — as much as 20% more power than west-facing panels — and the best return on your investment.

SEE ALSO: Were Your Solar Panels Made With Conflict Minerals?

So homeowners whose roofs face west may decide it just doesn't make economic sense to go solar. Only 9% of 110,000 residential solar arrays in California look toward the Pacific Ocean, according to a new study by Opower, an Arlington, Virginia, company that analyzes consumer energy use for utilities. Read more...

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