A Solatube® Daylighting System works well on the north side of a roof. However, it performs even better when exposed to direct sunlight. For the best results, position the system where it will receive the most direct south-facing sunlight possible. To catch more direct rays, a turret extension can also be added to raise the dome height above the roof peak if on the north side of the roof.
The reverse is true in the southern hemisphere. There, a north-facing position is ideal.