Find the Right Solar Panel Size and Output for Your Home
Quickly estimate how many solar panels you need based on your energy use and sunlight hours
Solar Panel Calculator
How the Solar ROI Calculator Works
Our calculator helps you estimate the return on your solar investment by analyzing your electricity usage, system cost, and local solar conditions.
It provides accurate ROI and payback period estimates by considering factors like panel efficiency, system lifespan, and annual savings from reduced energy bills.
Behind the Numbers: How We Calculate Panel Needs
To estimate the number of panels required, we use an industry-standard formula that factors in your daily energy use, average sun hours, panel wattage, and system efficiency.
We also account for real-world losses like shading, weather, inverter efficiency, and temperature impacts to give you the most accurate results possible.
Solar Installation Results
Solar Panels Needed
Daily Energy Production
System Size
Annual Savings
Solar Benefits Overview
Reduce Bills
Save 70-100% on electricity costs
Eco Friendly
Reduce carbon footprint
Increase Value
Homes with solar sell for 4.1% more
Energy Security
Protect against power outages
Savings Projection
How Our Solar Panel Calculator Works
Our advanced solar panel calculator uses your location, energy usage, and system specifications to provide accurate estimates of your solar potential. The tool accounts for panel efficiency, sunlight hours, and system losses to give you realistic projections. To understand how solar panel efficiency is calculated, National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) resource.
Understanding Your Results
The calculator shows how many solar panels you need based on your energy consumption. It also estimates your system size, daily production, and potential annual savings – helping you make an informed decision about going solar.
Maximizing Solar Benefits
By adjusting the panel wattage and efficiency settings, you can explore different system configurations. Our calculator helps you find the optimal balance between system cost and energy production for your specific needs. For deeper insights into solar system design, check out this comprehensive guide by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Why Solar Panels for Home
Solar panels for home use provide significant advantages that make them an excellent investment:
- Reduced Energy Bills: Save 70-100% on electricity costs with solar power
- Increased Home Value: Homes with solar sell 20% faster and for 4.1% more
- Environmental Benefits: Reduce carbon footprint by 3-4 tons annually
- Energy Independence: Protect against rising electricity prices
Solar Panel Sizing Guide
Determine the optimal solar panel size for your specific needs:
- Residential Systems: 300-400W panels, 15-20 panels for average home
- RV & 12V Systems: 100-200W panels, 2-4 panels for basic needs
- Commercial Systems: 400-500W panels, 10kW to over 1MW systems
For most homeowners, a 6-8kW system provides complete energy independence at a reasonable cost.
Cost & Savings Analysis
Solar panels cost money at first, but then they save you money every month! Use our free solar ROI calculator to see how much you could save over time.
- After about 6-8 years, your solar panels pay for themselves
- Then you get free electricity for 20+ more years
- Over 25 years, a typical system generates $40,000+ in savings
Frequently Asked Questions