Measure surface orientation and tilt

Orientation and tilt describe the surface on which the PV modules will be installed. They directly affect estimated production.

Surface orientation

1. Open the project, then Project settings → Surface orientation.
2. Choose Measure azimuth to open the compass tool, or enter a known value.
3. For a measurement, orient the device as instructed on screen.
4. Wait for an azimuth reading to replace the north-finding message, then confirm the measurement once the reading is steady.
5. Use Fine tuning if you know a more precise value.

Azimuth is measured clockwise from north: east 90°, south 180°, west 270°. A southwest-facing roof can therefore be entered as approximately 225°.

Surface tilt

1. In the same section, select Measure tilt.
2. In the Clinometer, place the phone flat against the roof slope or an accessible surface with the same tilt.
3. Hold it still briefly and read the angle relative to horizontal.
4. Confirm the measurement to use this angle in the project settings. If you have a drawing or independent measurement, you can also enter the angle directly in settings.

A tilt of 0° is horizontal. A steeper roof has a higher angle.

Measurement accuracy

Nearby magnetic fields from metal, structures or electrical equipment can disturb the compass. Move if needed and prefer a value from a reliable drawing when sensors are unstable.

If a message says the sensor is unavailable or permission has been denied, check the phone’s permissions. You can close the instrument with the cross and enter a known value in settings.

The measured orientation is a surface characteristic, separate from the azimuth of an obstacle captured in the horizon profile. Align with the sun, during survey preparation, calibrates the device’s heading reference; it does not set the roof surface orientation.

After editing, tap Apply to recalculate. See Configure the system.