Guide to Determining How Many Solar Panels You Need for Your Home

2024-03-02 19:55:26

Homeowners considering a photovoltaic installation often ask themselves the question: how do I determine how many solar panels I need? This question is essential because it directly influences the performance and energy efficiency of your system. In this article, our experts explain the steps to follow to best estimate your need for solar panels. However, it is important to consult a professional to obtain personalized advice and a reliable answer.

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Analysis of your current electricity consumption

To begin, you need to analyze your current electricity consumption. You can use your electricity bills for this. It is preferable to have a precise idea of ​​your consumption over a year, because it can vary according to the seasons (air conditioning in summer, heating in winter). Also note peak times and periods of low consumption to better calibrate your system.

Monthly payment or annual bill?

If you subscribe to an electricity offer with monthly payments, divide your annual bill by 12 to obtain an estimate of your monthly consumption. If you receive a bill every two months, simply multiply this amount by 6 to calculate your annual consumption.

Estimation of potential solar energy production

Once your electricity consumption has been analyzed, it is time to estimate the potential solar energy production of your photovoltaic installation. Several factors influence this estimate:

Average sunshine in your region: Find out regarding the average annual sunshine in your geographic area. Maps and data are available online to help you determine this number.

The type and power of the solar panels chosen: solar panels have different yields depending on their technology (mono- or polycrystalline) and their efficiency (15% to 25%).

The orientation of the roof: The performance of solar panels also depends on their orientation in relation to the sun. The ideal is a south-facing orientation with an angle of inclination of around 30°.

The presence of shading: Trees, buildings or other obstacles located near your installation can create shade and reduce the performance of the solar panels.

Energy needs vs solar production

With this information, you can estimate the potential solar energy production for your home. Simply multiply the average sunshine by the power and efficiency of the solar panels, then adjust according to the tilt angle, orientation and shadows. Then compare this estimate to your current energy needs to determine if a photovoltaic installation is suitable for your situation.

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Calculation of the number of solar panels needed

Now that you have a clear idea of ​​your energy needs and potential solar energy production, it’s time to calculate how many solar panels you will need. Here are the steps to follow:

Determine the total power required: divide your annual consumption by the estimated solar production (in kWh). This figure is the total power you need to generate with your solar panels.

Choose the unit power of the solar panels: solar panels are sold according to their power (generally expressed in peak watts or Wp). The higher the unit power, the more energy each panel can produce.

Calculate the number of solar panels required: divide the total power required by the unit power of the chosen solar panels. Round up to the next whole number to have a safety margin.

For a concrete example:

Let’s imagine that you have an annual consumption of 4,000 kWh, and that the average sunshine in your region allows you to produce 1,200 kWh per year with a 250 Wp solar panel. Here’s how to calculate how many solar panels you’ll need:

• Total power required: 4,000 kWh / 1,200 kWh = 3.33 (rounded to 3.5)
• Number of solar panels required: 3.5 x 250 Wp = 875 Wp
• Number of solar panels required: 875 Wp / 250 Wp = 3.5 (rounded to 4)

In this example, it is estimated that you will need four 250 Wp solar panels to cover your annual consumption.

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Checking available roof space

Before investing in a photovoltaic installation, it is also crucial to check that your roof has the necessary surface area to accommodate the solar panels calculated previously. Typically, a solar panel measures around 1.6 m². Multiply this dimension by the estimated number of solar panels to obtain the total area required. It is also necessary to take into account the spacing between the panels and the constraints linked to the weight or shape of the roof.

Practical advice:

Use a tape measure and visual cues to help you determine how much space is actually available on your roof. If you are short on space, consider opting for more efficient solar panels (with an efficiency greater than 20%) or improving the thermal insulation of your home to reduce your energy needs.

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Call a professional for a tailor-made photovoltaic installation

Calculating solar panel requirements is certainly complex, but it is essential to guarantee the performance and profitability of your photovoltaic installation. Do not hesitate to contact professionals to obtain personalized advice and information on the financial assistance you can benefit from during installation.

Price of a solar installation depending on the surface area of ​​the house:

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