How to work out the number of solar panels your house needs
Determining how many solar panels you might need to be able to produce your own energy is an inexact science, but there’s a simple formula that can help
Deciding to go solar is not just a green initiative but also a financial one, with the potential to reduce electricity bills and environmental impact. However, before diving into solar panel installation, it’s crucial to determine how many panels your home requires.
Here’s a simplified guide to help you through the process, courtesy of Ecosolarspain.
First off, you have to gather the necessary data. Start with your power needs by calculating your average monthly electricity usage from your utility bill, then divide this figure by the average number of days in a month to determine your daily usage.
Also important is sun exposure – the average daily sunlight hours your location receives. This information helps estimate the amount of energy your panels need to generate daily.
The third thing to consider is panel wattage, determining the energy output of the solar panels you plan to install. Most panels produce between 0.35 to 0.45 kWh of electricity per hour.
Then, armed with this information, you need to fill in the following formula: divide your daily kWh needed by the per-panel kWh output. Round up the result to ensure you have sufficient panels. This rough estimate serves as a starting point for further calculations.
Of course, there are other factors to consider, including production ratio and the physical space you have available on your property.
A professional installer considers factors like shade, panel orientation and geographical features to calculate a more accurate Production Ratio (PR), with a lower PR meaning you may require additional panels to meet energy production goals. In terms of physical space, you have to keep in mind the average size of solar panels and available installation space. Standard panels occupy approximately 17.9 square feet each, so ensure your chosen location can accommodate the required number of panels.
While this simplified calculation provides a rough estimate, consulting a professional installer for a comprehensive assessment is advisable. Contact Ecosolarspain using the contact form below to get a free assessment of your specific energy needs so you can make informed decisions about transitioning to solar energy for your home:
