Analyzing the effect of altering solar photovoltaic panel azimuth angles on energy production

• South-facing PV panels achieved the highest annual energy production of 727,672 kWh. • Economic analysis shows south-facing panels save over USD 1.3 million over 25 years. • Azimuth angle variation up to 45° east of south has minimal impact on PV energy output. • Energy output decreases by 10.55% when the azimuth shifts to 120°. • Flexible PV design strategies for hot desert climates without significant performance loss. Global energy demand is expected to increase, leading to higher greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels. Countries are adopting renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels, but optimal performance depends on azimuth angle, solar radiation, and location. This study simulated four azimuth angles of 120°, 135°, 150°, and 180° using Revit Architecture for PV panels layout and DesignBuilder for energy modeling of a medium-sized photovoltaic system at an educational facility in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The fixed-tilt system in Dammam's climate, an eastward azimuth shift from 180° (south) to 135° (southeast), results in only a 3.4% annual energy penalty, supporting significant design flexibility. However, at 120° (60 east), energy output decreased by 10.55% (76,770.15 kWh). Over the system’s lifespan, south-facing panels (180°) could save about USD 1.3 million on energy bills, while 120° panels save roughly 12.31% less. The findings demonstrate substantial design flexibility for azimuth in sunny climates, with quantified trade-offs to inform system design.