1. What is the Solar Panel Watts Calculation?

The Solar Panel Watts Calculation determines the wattage of solar panels needed to meet your daily energy consumption based on available sunlight and system efficiency. It helps in properly sizing your solar power system.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( Watts \) — Solar panel wattage needed (watts)
• \( Consumption \) — Daily energy consumption (kWh/day)
• \( Sun\ Hours \) — Average peak sunlight hours per day (hours/day)
• \( Efficiency \) — System efficiency factor (decimal between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The equation accounts for your energy needs and divides by the available solar energy (sun hours) adjusted for system inefficiencies.

3. Importance of Solar Panel Sizing

Details: Proper solar panel sizing ensures your system meets your energy needs without being unnecessarily large or expensive. Undersized systems won't meet demand, while oversized systems cost more than necessary.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Enter your average daily energy consumption in kWh
• Input your location's average peak sun hours (typically 3-6 hours/day)
• Use 0.75 for efficiency unless you know your specific system's efficiency factor

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical efficiency factor?
A: Most systems have 70-80% efficiency (0.7-0.8) accounting for inverter losses, temperature effects, and other factors.

Q2: How do I find my sun hours?
A: Check solar insolation maps or local weather data for your area's average peak sun hours.

Q3: Should I add a safety margin?
A: Yes, it's common to add 10-25% to account for panel degradation over time and less-than-ideal conditions.

Q4: Does this account for battery storage?
A: No, this calculates panel size only. Battery systems require additional calculations based on days of autonomy needed.

Q5: How does panel orientation affect this?
A: Sun hours should reflect your panel's tilt and orientation. South-facing panels at optimal tilt get maximum sun hours.