South-facing rooftop solar panels are the norm as the direction provides the most energy throughout the day. Experts, however, say the position is far from optimal.

South-facing rooftop solar panels are the norm, and it’s said that’s the case because the direction provides the most energy throughout the day.

What homeowners do with that resource is up to them. They can use it all up, or, if they choose, sell off the extra.

Rules surrounding sales to the electric grid reward the southern exposure decision, as money is paid according to how much energy is produced rather than at what time it’s available.

According to experts consulted by the New York Times, that’s proven to be a very poor way of going about things, as it doesn’t provide the best benefit to the environment.

Here’s the problem.

Solar panels facing south can’t meet the demands of high usage periods like late afternoon.

Those directed west can, but few are as the southern positioning option pays better.

Nuclear plants don’t offer a solution to the fluctuations in energy demand either, as they cannot manipulate production and output in that way.

So, when electricity usage spikes later in the day, there’s no choice but to turn to the fossil fuel powered plants such as natural gas and coal that many are trying to phase out.

Some people conclude that rather than replacing the natural gas industry, solar power has strengthened it.