This blog discusses the size and output of solar panel systems. We explain that the size of the system will have a direct impact on its production. We also discuss the cost and space requirements of solar panel systems.
There are a few things to consider when determining the size of your solar system.
The first is what you hope to accomplish with your solar panels. A smaller solar panel array may suffice if you’re trying to lower your energy bill. But if you’re interested in battery backup and having power during outages, you’ll need a more extensive system.
How Much Solar Energy Are You Looking For?
The first thing to consider when sizing your solar system is what you want to use it for. Are you interested in going wholly off-grid or wish to lower your energy bill?
If you’re interested in going off-grid, you’ll need a more extensive solar system. This is because you’ll need to generate enough electricity to power your entire home or business without relying on the grid. This means you’ll need enough solar panels to generate all of the electricity you need, plus a little extra to charge batteries in order to be prepared for power outages at all times.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to lower your energy bill, then a smaller system may be all you need. In this case, you can size your system based on your past utility bills usages. Look at your utility bills from the past few months and determine your total energy consumption. Then, using our sophisticated solar calculator, design your solar system big enough to produce 100% or more of your energy needs.
How Much Sunlight Your Property Receives
Another way how to determine solar system size is the average amount of sun your area receives will directly impact the size of your solar panel system. If you live in an area with lots of peak sunlight hours, then the number of solar panels you’ll need is fewer to generate the same amount of panel efficiency as someone in a less sunny area system output.
This is because solar panel output efficiency relies on sunlight to generate electricity. The more sun they’re exposed to, the higher their solar system output. So, if you live in a sunny area, you can get by with a smaller solar system.
However, if you live in a less sunny area, you’ll need more panels to generate the same amount of electricity. This is because your system will receive less sun hours and will generate less electricity, so you’ll need more panels to make up the difference.
Solar Panels Cost and Space Requirements
Now that you know how to determine your solar system size, it’s time to discuss cost and space requirements. Solar panels aren’t cheap, so the more you need, the more expensive the system will be.
The average solar panel system costs between $20,000 and $65,000. However, the cost of your particular system will depend on the size, efficiency of the panels, and other factors.
In addition to price, you’ll also need to consider the amount of roof space required for your solar panel array. The average solar panel system takes up between 24 and 32 square feet of roof space. But again, this will depend on the size and efficiency of your panels.
Keep these factors in mind when sizing your solar panel system. The more solar panels you need, But if you want to have a backup, you’ll need lithium batteries and an automatic transfer switch to safely disconnect from the utility grid.
It’s also very different when it comes to commercial solar panels:
The average commercial solar panel system costs between $40,000 and $1,00,000. But the cost of your particular system will depend on the size, efficiency of the panels, and other factors.
In addition to price, you’ll also need to consider the amount of roof space required for your solar panel array. The average commercial solar panel system takes up more space than residential systems due to required inner row spacing. But again, this will depend on the roof type, size, and efficiency of your panels.
Keep these factors in mind when sizing your solar panel system. Commercial solar systems are often more expensive and take up more space compared to residential systems.
Wolf River Electric Has You Covered
The solar industry is filled with companies that make promises and fail to deliver. But being that we are Minnesota’s number one residential solar installation company, we know that installing a solar system can make many people anxious. We’re here to tell you that solar is one of the best investments you can make for your home or business. Not only will solar save you money on your electric bill, but it will also increase the value of your property.
Here at Wolf River Electric, we understand that a solar system is a significant investment, and we want to ensure you get the most out of your solar system. That’s why when you work with us; we do all the homework for you. We higher highly educated engineers to calculate, map, and execute the perfect solar plan for your property by using the best software and tools throughout the whole process. So you can spend less time guessing what size solar system you need and more time prepping for the array of benefits solar brings. Contact us today for a free solar estimate!