Peak sun hours is an important factor to take into account when considering solar but, panals don’t need direct sunlight to work, so will harness power regardless which way they are facing, by how much varies by location and obstacles such as trees causing shadows.
The ultimate in systems be power systems that automatically followed the sun and tilted a few degrees more during winter but, one has to be realistic with their expectations.
I woyldn’t rush into a decision re the batteries untill you have fully weighed up the pro’s and cons of each and the overall size realistically needed. Asking on solar pv forums, will also gain additional valuable knowledge alongside what you have already had, so you are competant in the decision you make.