How Many Solar Panels Do You Need: Panel

Size and Output Factors

Determining how many solar panels you’ll need for your home means first
knowing what your goals are. Do you want to minimize your carbon footprint? 
Maximize your return on your investment? Save as much money as possible? 
Most people want to save money while minimizing their environmental impact.

To calculate how many solar panels you need, you need to know the
following: how much energy your household uses; your roof’s usable surface
area; the climate and peak sunlight in your area; the wattage and relative
efficiency of the photovoltaic (PV) panels you’re considering; and whether net
metering is available.

One simple way of answering the “How many solar panels do I need” question
is to consult a professional solar installer, who can give you a free home solar
evaluation.

1. How much solar power will you need?

To determine your home’s average energy requirements look at past utility

bills. You can calculate how many solar panels you need by multiplying your
household’s hourly energy requirement by the peak sunlight hours for your
area and dividing that by a panel’s wattage. Use a low-wattage (150W) and
high-wattage (370W) example to establish a range (ex: 17-42 panels to
generate 11,000 kWh/year). Note that how much sunlight your roof gets and
factors such as roof size and battery storage will figure in as well.

If you work with SunPower, our solar experts will handle all these calculations
for you. But to give you some idea of how many solar panels are needed for
the average home (or for your home in particular), here is a sample set of
questions that a solar professional might use to figure it out:

2. How many watts do you currently use?

Look at your electricity bill for average usage. Look for “Kilowatt Hours (or
kWh) Used” or something similar, and then note the time period represented
(usually 30 days). If your bill doesn’t show kilowatt hours used, look for
beginning and ending meter readings and subtract the previous reading from
the most recent one.

You want daily and hourly usage for our calculations, though, so if your bill

doesn’t show a daily average, just divide the monthly or annual average by 30
or 365 days, respectively, and then divide again by 24 to determine your
hourly average electricity usage. Your answer will be in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
(And just in case you are wondering, a kilowatt-hour is how much power you
are using at any given time multiplied by the total time the power is being
used.)

A small home in a temperate climate might use something like 200 kwh per
month, and a larger home in the south where air conditioners account for the
largest portion of home energy usage might use 2,000 kWh or more. The
average U.S. home uses about 900 kWh per month. So that’s 30 kWh per day
or 1.25 kWh per hour.

Your average daily energy usage is your target daily average for to calculate
your solar needs. That’s the number of kilowatt-hours you need your solar
system to produce if you want to cover 100 percent of your energy needs.

It’s important to note that solar panels don’t operate at maximum efficiency at
all times. (See Solar 101: How Does Solar Energy Work?). Weather
conditions, for example, can temporarily reduce your system’s efficiency.
Therefore, experts recommend adding a 25 percent “cushion” to your target
daily average to ensure you can generate all the clean energy you need.

3. How many hours of sunlight can you expect in your area?

The peak sunlight hours for your particular location will have a direct impact
on the energy you can expect your home solar system to produce. For
example, if you live in Phoenix you can expect to have a greater number of
peak sunlight hours than if you lived in Seattle. That doesn’t mean a Seattle
homeowner can’t go solar; it just means the homeowner would need more
panels.

The Renewable Resource Data Center provides sunlight information by state

and for major cities.
Now multiply your hourly usage (see question No. 1) by 1,000 to convert your
hourly power generation need to watts. Divide your average hourly wattage
requirement by the number of daily peak sunlight hours for your area. This
gives you the amount of energy your panels need to produce every hour. So
the average U.S. home (900 kWh/month) in an area that gets five peak
sunlight hours per day would need 6,250 watts.

4. What affects solar panel output efficiency?

Here’s where solar panel quality makes a difference. Not all solar panels are
alike. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels (most commonly used in residential
installations) come in wattages ranging from about 150 watts to 370 watts per
panel, depending on the panel size and efficiency (how well a panel is able to
convert sunlight into energy), and on the cell technology.

For example, solar cells with no grid lines on the front (like SunPower ® 
Maxeon cells) absorb more sunlight than conventional cells and do not suffer
from issues such as delamination (peeling). The construction of our cells
make them stronger and more resistant to cracking or corrosion. And a
microinverter on each panel can optimize power conversion at the source, in
contrast to one large inverter mounted on the side of the house.

Because of these wide variations in quality and efficiency, it’s difficult to make
generalizations about which solar panels are right for you or how many you’ll
need for your home. The main takeaway is that, the more efficient the panels
are, the more wattage they can produce, and the fewer you will need on your
roof to get the same energy output. Conventional solar panels usually produce
about 250 watts per panel, with varying levels of efficiency. In contrast,
SunPower panels are known to be the most efficient solar panels on the
market.

To figure out how many solar panels you need, divide your home’s hourly
wattage requirement (see question No. 3) by the solar panels’ wattage to
calculate the total number of panels you need.

So that average U.S. home in Dallas, Texas, would need about 25

conventional (250W) solar panels or 17 SunPower (370W) panels.

5. What is the effect of solar panel size?

If you have a small or unusually shaped roof, solar panel size and numbers
are important considerations. With a large usable roof area, perhaps you can
sacrifice some efficiency and buy more larger panels (at a lower cost per
panel) to get to your target energy output. But if your usable roof area is
limited, or if it’s partially shaded, being able to use fewer smaller high
efficiency panels may be the best way to make the most possible power over
the long term, ultimately saving you more money.

Typical residential solar panel dimensions today are about 65 inches by 39

inches, or 5.4 feet by 3.25 feet, with some variation among manufacturers.
SunPower panels are 61.3 inches by 41.2 inches.

These dimensions have remained more or less unchanged for decades, but
the efficiency and output from that same footprint have changed dramatically
for the better. In addition, SunPower designs entire systems to have virtually
no gaps between panels and uses invisible framing and mounting hardware to
keep the rooftop footprint as tight, efficient and attractive as possible.

Knowing the answers to the above questions will give you an idea of the ideal
number of panels for your electricity generation needs — or at least a realistic
range. Next, a professional installer needs to assess your roof architecture,
angle to the sun and other factors to see if and how you’d be able to
physically arrange the right number of panels on your roof to achieve your
daily energy production goals.

You should also consider net metering as you’re considering figuring out your
ROI for your solar system. Net metering is how your utility company credits
you for producing excess solar energy when the sun is shining and then lets
you draw from those credits when you’re using conventional power grid at
night, if you don’t have a solar battery storage system.

To get started, check out our solar calculator, which can help you figure out
how much you might save going solar.

Related posts

 Solar 101: How Does Solar Energy Work?

 How a Southern California Family Went Solar to Save on Summer

Electric Bills
  How Home Solar Panels are Installed
Interested in high efficiency solar panels for your home? Contact SunPower 
for more information.

Definition
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) is a technology that converts sunlight
(solar radiation) into direct current electricity by using semiconductors.
When the sun hits the semiconductor within the PV cell, electrons are
freed and form an electric current.
Solar PV technology is generally employed on a panel (hence solar
panels). PV cells are typically found connected to each other and
mounted on a frame called a module. Multiple modules can be wired
together to form an array, which can be scaled up or down to produce
the amount of power needed.
PV cells can be made from various semi-conductor materials. The
most commonly used material today is silicon but other materials,
such the ones listed below, are being tested and used to increase the
efficiency of converting sunlight to electricity.
 Monocrystalline Silicon
 Polycrystalline Silicon
 Amorphous Silicon
 Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)
 Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS)
Almost 90% of the world’s PV technologies, today, are based on some
variation of silicon[1]. In 2011, about 95% of all shipments by U.S.
manufacturers to the residential sector were crystalline silicon solar
panels[2].
The major difference between the technologies is the material used to
generate electricity out of sunlight. Each type of material has different
attributes, resulting in different applications and efficiencies. In general
the efficiency of solar PV technologies varies, ranging between 6-18%
at the moment.
Context
Solar PV first appeared in niche markets in the 1950s and slowly
became more mainstream as it was used in off-grid applications
Unlike solar thermal technologies, solar PV relies on sunlight, which
means that when the sun does not shine electricity is not produced.
One important advantage of solar PV is it that utilizes the most
abundant renewable energy resource on the planet, the sun.
Estimates show that there is 10,000x more solar energy coming to the
Earth’s surface than global annual fossil fuel demand[3].
Another advantage of solar PV’s is that it
transitions electricity generation from large, centralized facilities to
smaller, decentralized production sites (ie. residential rooftops). This
turns former energy consumers into so-called “prosumers," people
that can produce and consume their own electricity.
Traditionally, concerns about solar PV were about cost, intermittency
and efficiency, but large-scale implementation and rapid cost
decline[4] in places like Germany and USA have revealed more
complex issues such as grid compatibility, lack of solar industry
expertise, and the use of rare and precious metals that make up the
cells. 

Sunrun Solar Panels: Peace Of Mind

For Years To Come 
Solar power is yours for the making. With Sunrun, you'll find a
home solar panel system that optimizes efficiency, durability,
service, and value. We've done the work for you so you don't
have to. We offer plenty of solar panel options, plus flexible
solar financing to fit your budget.

About Our Solar Panels

We only use the most advanced solar technologies made by
trusted names like LG. LG solar panels like the NeON2 are one
of the best on the market.  Their high-efficiency (HE) panels
1

ensure you're getting the most energy you can from the sun.
Not only do we offer some of the best solar panels on the
market--with Sunrun's flexible solar leasing options, care and
maintenance are on us. Our flexible solar financing options
include 24/7 monitoring and repairs for the life of your service
agreement. That means no hassle, no extra fees--just clean,
long-term solar power straight to you.
Solar panels are just a part of the solution to creating a planet
run by the sun.
 
To make sure you're getting the most out of your system, you'll
want solar panels with battery storage like Sunrun's Brightbox
home battery service. With Brightbox, you can power your
home through outages with a smart and reliable home battery
that puts you in control. Learn more about our home
battery, check to see if it's currently available in your state.

Get a free personalized SunrunTM home solar

system design & quote
Our Automated Site Modeling tool is a revolutionary
technology that allows Sunrun to design a custom home solar
system in minutes, based on your roof’s unique dimensions and
layout.
By accessing multiple satellite imaging libraries, Automated
Site Modeling will use your roof’s individual
profile including; shading, pitch, sun exposure, seasonality,
and more. We will ensure the system matches your unique
lifestyle and home energy needs, as well as your savings and
carbon-free goals.
Sunrun Solar Panels for Your Home

We're here to help you tap into the sun's potential, on your
terms. See if you qualify. The time to go solar is now.

What is Solar Net Metering and How Does it

Work
Many consumers who are thinking about going solar have heard the term “net
metering” but aren’t sure what it means.

What is Net Metering?

Put simply, net metering is a utility billing mechanism available in most states
that offers a credit to residential and business customers who are making
excess electricity with their solar panel systems and sending it back to the
grid.

How Does Net Metering Work?

When you have a rooftop solar system, it can often generate more electricity
than you consume during daylight hours.

With net metering, the homeowner is only billed for the “net” energy used
each month, that is, the difference between the energy produced by the solar
power system and the energy consumed by the house over the monthly billing
period. 

When your house or business is net-metered, you’ll see the meter run
backwards, and that means, depending upon local policies, you may get a
credit to hedge against the electricity you use from the grid when it’s not
sunny or at nighttime. You are then billed only for your “net” energy use. The
excess energy generated gets put back to the grid for your neighbors to use.
(Read about net metering for businesses on the SunPower Business Feed.)

The Benefits of Net Metering

Net metering can save homeowners hundreds of dollars on their utility bills
every year, so it’s a good reason to make the money-saving choice and go
solar sooner rather than later.

There’s another benefit from net metering. Since your solar system is
generating electricity near the point where it will be used, this reduces strain
on the grid’s distribution and transmission infrastructure and minimizes energy
loss from sending voltage many miles from the nearest power plant. While
some claim that net metering represents an unfair burden on non-solar
electricity customers, many net metering cost-benefit studies have found the
opposite to be true.

Does My State Offer Net Metering?

Although some state regulators and utilities have proposed policies that
challenge the value of simple retail NEM, there haven’t been many changes to
the rules — yet.

The original retail net metering policies were designed for areas with low solar
adoption. But with California, New York and other states seeing rapid
increases in the amount of solar that’s being installed, there will be changes
coming in the next few years. California has already instituted what’s being
called “Net Metering 2.0,” and at least one study has shown how there are
reasons to be optimistic about the new policies compared to the original retail
net metering approach used in the Golden State.

To learn more about net metering and other related policies in your state,
check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
(DSIRE). Another resource for information about net metering, pro-solar
energy policies and consumer advocacy programs is the Solar Energy
Industries Association (SEIA), or ask your local SunPower dealer for the latest
on possible net metering-related policy changes in your area.

There are many discussions taking place across the country on how to evolve
the current programs. Net metering updates may factor in such things as a
more accurate valuation of the solar energy flowing into the distribution grid;
rate structures that charge more for electricity at certain times of the day (or
night) or look at where on the grid the excess electricity is being generated;
credits at a wholesale rather than retail rate; and the impact of residential
solar energy storage batteries.
If you are already benefiting from net metering for your solar system, you
likely will be shielded from any significant reductions — you will be
“grandfathered” in, regardless of any changes that may impact the rate design
of new solar customers.

So, to take advantage of current favorable net metering policies, don’t delay
going solar. Visit our Going Solar page to learn everything from how many
solar panels you’ll need to how much solar panels cost.

Related posts

 Home Solar Frequently Asked Questions

 How Much Do Solar Panels Cost

 Is My House a Good Candidate for Solar

 Solar Energy Pros and Cons

  How much do solar panels cost for my home?

Visit our Business Feed if you are interested in learning about commercial
solar costs.

Estimating How Much Home Solar Panels Cost

One of the first questions someone interested in solar asks is, “How much do
solar panels cost?” It’s important to know there is not a one-size-fits-all
answer because every home is different, and there are many geographic
variables and federal and local tax incentives to consider.

The easiest thing to do is to contact a professional solar installer. The installer

will give you a free evaluation that entails looking at your electricity bill to find
out how many kilowatt hours of energy your household typically uses and
evaluating your roof and shading, to determine how many panels you’ll need.
That, combined with local solar incentives your community may offer and the
30 percent federal solar tax credit , will give you a full picture of how much
1

your home solar system will cost.

How Much Do Solar Panel Installations Cost?

Very few people are going to buy just the solar panels themselves, just like
few people would buy the components of a car and build their own vehicle.
We recommend you use a SunPower-approved installer for your solar system.
So that’s where the cost gets to watts installed, to include the full system and
the cost of labor.

The cost per watt installed in the United States varies significantly by state,
customer type and system size, with median prices ranging from $3.2/W to
$4.5/W, according to Berkeley Lab’s Tracking the Sun report. The good news
is that prices have dropped significantly, declining 61 percent since 2010,
according to NREL.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Solar

Solar panel installation costs depend on multiple factors, including:

 Whether your state or local government provides tax credits, net

metering or other incentives;

 How you finance your system (e.g. lease, finance or purchase);

 The size and other characteristics of your roof, how much energy you
use and the quality of your solar panel technology; and

 The cost of solar panels in your area, which varies state-by-state.

Yes, it’s possible to buy a single solar panel for as little as $100, but a solar
panel does not operate in isolation. You need a system of hardware and
software to generate electricity from the sun, including solar panels, mounting
hardware, wires and cables, an inverter and monitoring software. And you
need to consider the cost of installation and operation.

Once you get an estimate for the cost of your solar power system, you should
subtract what you’ll save on your utility bill over time and any incentives
offered by your local or state governments. Then you’ll have a better
understanding of how going solar will impact your finances.

Why Higher Quality Panels Are Worth It

Remember that the adage, “You get what you pay for,” applies to home solar
technology. Not all solar systems are alike. The quality of the technology
matters in the long run. The durability, reliability and efficiency  of solar panels
2

can vary widely by manufacturer. If you settle for a conventional home solar
system that might cost less out-of-pocket, you can expect to see average (or
below average) results and less savings over time.  (Watch these videos
about the lifespan of SunPower solar panels and
their durability and reliability.)

A higher quality panel like SunPower’s might cost a little more up front, but
you will see a higher return on your investment in the long run. Our panels
come with a 25-year Complete Confidence warranty and have a useful life of
40 years.  They’re also the most efficient you can buy, so you’ll need fewer of
3

them on your roof. Our panels will produce up to 60 percent more energy over
time than conventional panels, ultimately saving you more money on your
electric bill.

Industry measurements such as the Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable

Energy Systems’ PV Durability Initiative can give you a better idea of a solar
panel’s expected lifespan  – a factor that can have a tremendous impact on
the system’s lifetime value.

The superior efficiency and durability of high quality panels can provide

increased savings over time and lower maintenance costs. (You can get a
personalized SunPower solar savings estimate using our solar calculator,
which lets you factor in variables like buying solar plus storage and/or having
an electric vehicle.)

Save on the Price of Solar Panels

There are many different tax incentives, subsidies and financing and billing
solutions at the state and local levels that can make going solar more
affordable. To see if you might be eligible for renewable energy incentive
programs, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables &
Efficiency® (DSIRE®).

If you purchase your solar system, you may be eligible for the solar ITC, which
allows you to deduct 30 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system
from your federal taxes. The full solar ITC is available to home solar owners
through 2019. It drops to a 26 percent deduction in 2020 and 22 percent in
2021. After that, the residential ITC is due to expire unless Congress decides
to extend it, so don’t put off buying solar for too long.
Get a Solar Estimate

Ultimately, the easiest way to answer the “How much does solar cost”
question is to give our solar advisors a call at 844-578-6793. They’ll help you
get a free estimate for your home. Or you can contact a solar installer in your
area directly. Here are some tips: Choosing a Home Solar Installation
Company or watch this video to see what to expect when you meet with a
solar professional to get a quote.

When you’re getting solar estimates, ask about the technologies the installer

intends to use, their hardware, their monitoring software, their past
installations and their maintenance plans. It’s especially important to ask
about their warranty.

Many companies offer multiple separate warranties for a solar system, and
there can be hidden fees in, for example, replacing a broken panel. SunPower
covers its entire Equinox home solar system with one warranty and will not
charge you, for example, to ship us a panel that needs to be replaced.

Ready to get started? Enter your address into our solar savings calculator to
find out how much you’d save going solar.

Related posts

 How Many Solar Panels Do You Need: Panel Size and Output Factors

 How Home Solar Panels are Installed

 Is My House a Good Candidate for Solar

 Tax credits subject to change.  SunPower does not warrant, guarantee or
1

otherwise advise its partners or customers about specific tax outcomes.

Consult your tax advisor regarding the solar tax credit and how it applies to
your specific circumstances. Please visit the dsireusa.org website for detailed
solar policy information.

2 
Highest of over 3,200 silicon solar panels, Photon Module Survey, Feb 2014.

3
 "Fraunhofer PV Durability Initiative for Solar Modules: Part 2". Photovoltaics
International, 2014