Considering going solar, but you’re not sure how many panels you’ll need to make it worthwhile? Many homeowners want to know how many panels they’ll need to buy as they budget for this home upgrade. 

While the average household needs around 15-20 solar panels to offset their energy needs, the amount you need will be impacted by your specific energy usage, roof size and orientation, home location, and more. Let’s dig into the details.

In this article: 

• How to Calculate How Many Solar Panels You Need 
• Factors That May Influence the Number of Solar Panels Needed
• Practical Considerations
• The Bottom Line About Solar Panel Needs
• Frequently Asked Questions

How to Calculate How Many Solar Panels You Need 

To calculate roughly how many solar panels you should install, you need to know specific details like how much energy you consume, the wattage of the solar panels you’re looking to buy, and even your area’s energy production ratio from solar power. (Production ratio is how much electricity a solar panel produces under the average sunlight and weather conditions in your region — in the U.S., production ratios can range from 0.9-1.6.)

Step-by-Step Calculation

1. Determine your annual energy usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh). You can total up your annual kWh by looking at past utility bills.
2. Find the production ratio in your state with a map like this one.
3. Consider the wattage of solar panels you want to purchase.

 

Your equation will look like this:

 

Annual Energy Usage (kWh) ÷ Production Ratio ÷ Solar Panel Wattage =

 Number of Solar Panels Needed

 

For example, let’s say that your home uses the American household average of 896 kWh per month. If we multiply that by 12 to get your annual usage, that number is 10,752 kWh. If you live right in the middle of the contiguous United States, your production ratio is 1.4. And maybe you’re looking at 350-watt solar panels. 

 

Your calculation would be:

 

10,752 kWh ÷ 1.4 ÷ 350 watts = ~22 solar panels

Online Calculators

You can use online calculators to estimate how many solar panels you may need, especially if you’re unsure of your annual energy usage or your state’s production ratio. This can simplify the process for you, but these online calculators can also have their limitations. They use general data that may not be accurate for your home’s specific solar needs and might give you an incorrect number.

 

We recommend consulting with a professional installer who will consider all of your home’s nuances, from details like tree cover and available roof space to your area’s climate quirks.

Factors That May Influence the Number of Solar Panels Needed

The number of panels you’ll need isn’t one-size-fits-all. Factors like the amount of electricity you use, the power output of the solar panels you buy, how much sun you get, and even your roof size can all impact how many panels you’ll need to invest in.

Energy Consumption

First, you need to understand how much electricity your home actually uses. 

 

Check your past few electric bills and see the kilowatt-hours consumed each month. This should give you a general sense of your regular electricity usage. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average household uses just under 900 kWh per month.

 

Habits like turning off lights when you leave a room, how often you use your air conditioning, and whether you have high-efficiency appliances all impact your electricity usage. The less electricity your home uses, the fewer solar panels you’ll need.

Solar Panel Wattage

How much electricity does a solar panel produce? Solar cells come in varying wattage levels, meaning one type or brand might have a different power rating than another. Many solar panels have a power output between 250-400 watts in ideal conditions. Since higher-wattage panels are able to produce more electricity than lower-wattage panels, you can install fewer panels if you opt for a high-wattage system.

 

If your area gets about four peak hours of sun per day, then 1 kW of solar panels would generate 4 kWh of energy in one day under ideal conditions. If you use 28 kWh of energy on a typical day, then 7 kWh of solar panels could meet your home’s needs. 

Climate and Sun Exposure

Another significant aspect to consider is your location’s general climate and weather conditions. Sunnier states can produce more solar energy, so homes that see regular sunshine would need to install fewer solar panels than homes in more overcast regions.

 

A region’s sunlight is measured in peak sun hours, which measure the intensity of sunlight under ideal conditions. One peak sun hour equals an hour of sunlight that reaches an average of 1,000 watts (1 kilowatt) of power per square meter. 

 

So while your solar panels may see seven hours of sunlight in a day, they’ll really only see maybe four or five peak sun hours. States in New England can get between three to five hours of peak sun hours per day, while states in the Southwest could see five to seven peak sun hours per day.

Roof Size and Angle

While solar cells can work in all weather conditions and climates, they do need quite a bit of open space and to be positioned at the proper angle. 

 

A solar panel system won’t work well in a shaded area with lots of tree cover. And your roof may seem large, but chimneys or skylights will limit the space you can cover with solar panels. A standard solar panel will measure around 3.25 feet by 5.5 feet, and you’ll need multiple panels as part of your overall solar panel system.

 

A solar system will also work best on a south-facing roof with a slope that corresponds to the latitude of where you live — many homes in the U.S. are positioned at a slope of 30-45 degrees.

Practical Considerations

Even after calculating the number of solar panels you may need, other factors must be considered before scheduling your installation. How much will it cost? How many solar panels do you need if your family expands? Can you get any financial incentives for installing solar? 

 

Keep these questions in mind as you look at your solar options.

Budget Constraints

While using solar power for your home can help save on electricity bills, there are the upfront costs to think about. Solar panels and installation can range in price from $2.40 to $3.60 per watt. 

 

So if you need a 7 kW solar system to power 28 kWh of daily electricity use, you could be looking at total installation costs of $16,800 to $25,200.

 

You should also factor in the cost of regular maintenance over time, which will increase your solar panel system’s lifespan and preserve its efficiency. Panel cleaning can cost around $10-$20 per panel, and solar panels are designed to last for 20-30 years. So make sure you save up for that annual maintenance over several decades.

Future Energy Needs

Your home probably won’t use the same amount of energy year in and year out. Perhaps your family will expand, or you’ll build a new addition to your house. No matter what, you should think about the potential for increased energy consumption over time. 

 

While you may not need extra kilowatts of solar power now, you may need it sometime in the future. It could be beneficial to install an extra panel just in case, or leave room for additional panels in the coming years.

Local Regulations and Incentives

Typically, solar installers need permits from their local governments before installing rooftop panels. Afterward, the local government will have an inspector ensure the new system follows the proper electrical and safety codes before they approve it to connect to the power grid. Permitting fees will vary depending on your jurisdiction.

 

On the other hand, your local government may offer incentives or rebates to help lower solar installation costs. Many states offer property tax exemptions to keep homeowners from paying more based on the increased property values that come with solar. Other states also offer sales tax exemptions on solar systems, and even a few offer exemptions on both taxes.

 

There’s also the federal solar tax credit, which gives back 30% of the cost of installing a solar panel system when you file a claim on your federal income taxes. And lastly, look into rebates from your utility company that may reduce the up-front cost of a solar installation.

The Bottom Line About Solar Panel Needs

In the end, the best way to determine how many solar panels your home needs is by speaking with installers who know your area. They can talk with you about your home’s specific power needs, suggest a proper wattage level for your solar panels, and make informed recommendations based on your region’s climate conditions.

 

Professional solar installers can also sit down and talk with you about any budgetary concerns and point you in the direction of available rebates or incentives that can help offset those costs.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I calculate how many solar panels I need for my house? 

You need three details: your annual energy usage in kilowatt-hours, the solar production ratio in your state, and the wattage of your desired solar panels. You’ll divide your energy usage by the production ratio, then divide that by the wattage.

 

Annual Energy Usage (kWh) ÷ Production Ratio ÷ Solar Panel Wattage = 

Number of Solar Panels Needed

How many solar panels do you need for different home sizes? 

Home Size	Average Annual Energy Consumption	Estimated Number of Panels
1,000 sq ft	4,710 kWh	8-12
1,500 sq ft	7,596 kWh	14-17
2,000 sq ft	10,512 kWh	16-25
2,500 sq ft	12,025 kWh	20-30
3,000 sq ft	14,175 kWh	24-30

 

While home size doesn’t automatically dictate how many solar panels you need, it can give you a general idea. You still need to factor in details like how many hours of peak sunlight you get and the wattage of the solar panel system.

How many solar panels do I need based on my energy usage?

That depends on how many peak sunlight hours your home gets in a day and the wattage level of the solar panels you want to use. If your home gets about four peak sun hours in an average day, then 1 kW of solar panels would generate 4 kWh of energy in one day under ideal conditions. If your energy usage is around 28 kWh in a typical day, then you’d need at least a 7 kW solar panel system. And if your solar panels are 350 watts each, then that’s 20 panels you’d need.

Can solar panels power my entire house? 

Yes, it’s possible to have your entire house powered by solar energy.  To power your home at night or on low-sunlight days, you’d also need backup solar batteries to store the solar power you’d collected during the daytime. Solar systems that allow you to go completely off-grid tend to be larger than average and more expensive.

Do I need solar batteries? 

You definitely need solar batteries if you want to store and use the solar power you’ve collected during peak sunlight hours. This can help you keep your home running at night, during low-sunlight days, or through power outages.

Are solar panels good for the environment? 

Solar energy doesn’t produce greenhouse gasses or other air pollution — that’s just Solar 101. By reducing our reliance on polluting power sources like fossil fuels, we can work to slow continuing climate change. The production process for sourcing materials for solar panels can be environmentally intensive, however, so make sure you research the types of panels you’re getting, how their materials are sourced, and whether they can be recycled when they reach the end of their life.

Can solar panels run my house during a power outage?

Solar panels can’t power your home during an outage, but if you keep backup solar batteries, you can continue to run your house that way if you’ve lost power.

How much electricity does a solar panel produce, and where does that power go when it converts? These questions are critical to answer to get the most out of your solar unit. Read on to learn more about the average amount of power a panel produces, how to calculate the rate of power production per panel, and the factors that affect your solar panel’s output. 

 

We’ll also be addressing some of the most common questions homeowners have about solar power for home and power preservation, providing you with reliable information from our solar experts. 

In this article: 

• How Solar Panels Work
• How Solar Power Production Is Measured 
• Average Solar Panel Production 
• Factors Affecting Solar Panel Power Capacity 
• Maximizing Solar Panel Power Production 
• Frequently Asked Questions

How Solar Panels Work

Solar panels work via the photoelectric effect, facilitated by the photovoltaic cells installed onto the solar panel’s frame. Once sunlight shines on these panels, energy from the sun’s rays is absorbed. As the energy is absorbed, electron release occurs, forming an electric charge (or current). 

 

This current then flows to the wiring in the panel, where it’s then captured and converted into useable electricity — first transitioning to direct current (DC) and then into useable alternating current (AC). 

 

This current is then ready to be distributed when you power your devices.  

How Solar Panel Power Production is Measured 

Solar power production is typically measured in watts, calculated by multiplying the solar panel’s overall amperage, wattage, and the number of cells. 

 

This value can then be converted to kilowatts (kW) and kilowatt-hours (kWh):

 

• Kilowatts (kW): This value details how much energy panels can produce in an hour of direct sunlight, assuming weather conditions are sunny. 

• Kilowatt-hours (kWh): This value summarizes the total amount of overall energy a solar system generates 

Average Solar Panel Production

Most experts estimate that a single residential solar panel can put out 530-880 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year, assuming two factors: 

 

• The home gets six hours of daily direct sunlight.
• The panel provides a daily output of 250 to 400 watts per hour.

 

Most homeowners follow this formula to determine the total solar panel output a system can generate: 

 

Wattage x Average Direct Sunlight Hours = Watt-hours Per Day

 

Despite accurate calculations, this value can be subjective based on your area’s weather conditions, where the panels are installed, and the state and cleanliness of your home’s roof. 

Factors Affecting Solar Panel Power Capacity

Many factors affect your solar panel’s output and subsequent capacity — knowing them gives you the information you need to maximize your setup and savings. 

Size and Type of Solar Panel

Different solar panel systems (and sizes of systems) offer varying energy production levels, even if placed in the same conditions. To fully see what this looks like, we have to consider the three primary types of panels and their differences: 

 

• Monocrystalline panels: These types of solar panels are high-efficiency, producing more power per square foot than other solar panels. They also typically have a lower energy coefficient than other panel types, meaning they lose less performance during heat spikes. 

• Polycrystalline panels: “Poly panels,” or polycrystalline panels, are the more affordable alternative to monocrystalline panels. They offer similar benefits and efficiency levels but are slightly less space- and power-efficient. They’re also more sensitive to heat, making them ideal for cooler climates or areas with four seasons.

• Thin-film solar panels: Thin-film solar panels are more sustainable and affordable than other silicon-based panels. They’re ideal for portable or small-scale use since they are lightweight and flexible. They are slightly less efficient than other panel types but often compensate for this with their simple installation process and versatility. 

Geographic Location and Sunlight Exposure

While it may seem like a bit of a given, many homeowners fail to account for the effect that available sunlight through summer and winter months has on solar panel performance. Panels need the sun’s energy via direct sunlight to convert enough energy to power your home and maintain complete energy independence. 

 

When optimizing your solar system, we recommend asking your tech about the best pivots based on your geographic location and sunlight exposure.  

Weather Conditions

The local climate also plays a major role in how much power a solar panel can produce at a given time. For example, those who live in cloudier conditions may have a different daily power conversion than those who live in sunnier areas, such as the desert. Additionally, those living in excessively hot areas may see their conversion efficiency decrease, resulting in less power produced overall.  

Angle and Orientation of Installation

The angle and orientation of your panels matter regarding energy efficiency. Placements determine how much direct sunlight a panel receives and how much power can be produced by a panel at a time. 

 

Your installation specialist will consider many factors to ensure a perfect panel placement, including the latitude, longitude and orientation of your location, and shaded areas adjoining to your house.

Maximizing Solar Panel Power Production

Looking to maximize your solar panel power production? Doing so ensures that you get the most out of every panel, helping you save on electricity bills and prolong the life of your units. 

 

Here are steps you can take starting today, courtesy of our solar specialists: 

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning

Like other areas of your home, your roof and solar panels should be cleaned regularly. Doing so helps increase the total energy produced by the solar panels while promoting a longer overall lifespan. The visual inspection you’ll naturally give them with each cleaning can help you proactively identify issues — such as wiring damage or panel cracks — before they become a problem. 

 

Where you live affects your solar panel cleaning schedule. While many homeowners opt for once a season, those living in the desert, on the coastline, or in the city may find they need to clean their panels more often due to natural climate-related buildup. 

 

Conversely, those who live in an area with high rain frequency or who have angled panels on their home may find that they don’t need to wash their panels as often. 

 

Cleaning your panels is simple. Follow your panel instructions and safely disconnect all panels before cleaning. Then, apply a soap-moistened sponge or a gentle cleaning solution and squeegee your panels. Avoid strong products, bleach,  high-pressure washers or hose attachments, as they can damage your panels. 

Technology Upgrades and Enhancements

Your solar system may become eligible for technology upgrades and enhancements over time. While these can come at an additional cost, they protect and prolong the life of your system and its overall energy efficiency. 

 

If you can afford it, consider making type-specific technology upgrades and enhancements available for your system, as your solar specialist recommends. 

Energy Storage Solutions

Energy storage solutions are always a strong way to maximize your power output and utility over time. These systems act as a complimentary auxiliary arm of your solar panel system, taking harvested energy and storing it sustainably for later use. 

 

These energy storage solutions ensure you have full access to whatever energy you need to power your home regardless of circumstance — weather shifts or time of day — and are “worth” the investment for many homeowners. 

Learn More About Solar Panels For Your Home

Wondering how much a home solar system costs? Get real quotes and connect to local installers with Heliose.

Frequently asked questions 

How much electricity does a solar panel produce per day? 

Experts estimate that the average home solar panel with an output of 250-400 watts creates 1.5-2 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per day. However, exterior factors (such as the size, location and condition of the panel) affect this estimation. 

How many solar panels do I need for 1000 kWh per month?

Many sources state that, on average, you need between 18-24 solar panels to provide 1000 kWh per month. However, we’d like to submit that this answer is subjective based on several key factors, such as your panel sizes, location, climate and energy consumption patterns. 

How many solar panels does it take to power a house?

Homes looking to secure total electrical independence typically install 15 to 22 panels to power their home. However, the number of panels necessary depends entirely on exterior factors, such as your panel type and size, your climate and location, energy consumption patterns, and any energy storage solutions that may or may not be installed.

What can you power with a single solar panel? 

A single solar panel can power a range of devices depending on the watt-hours it throws out and the energy consumption pattern of the device(s) in question. A traditional 100-watt solar power can typically run small household devices like a laptop, microwave or TV. 

What are the highest-output solar panels? 

The highest-output solar panels are monocrystalline solar panels, which average about 250-400 watts per panel. They have unanimously received the highest energy efficiency rating across expert sources and authorities. They’re ideal for homeowners looking for a more compact design or who wish to use their panels with an additional energy storage solution. 

 

Over 50% of homes that installed solar tech included solar battery storage in April 2024, compared with just over 20% as of October 2023. This rapid growth rate isn’t showing signs of slowing anytime soon — and with good reason. Solar batteries are maximizing thousands of homeowners’ investment in solar, offering them a backup power source that won’t further strain the environment. 

 

Read on to learn everything you need to know about solar batteries, their costs, and their points of benefit and consideration. 

In this article: 

• Cost of popular solar battery brands in 2024 
• Factors influencing solar battery costs 
• How solar batteries work 
• Types of solar batteries 
• Pros and cons of solar batteries 
• Are solar batteries worth it? 
• Frequently asked questions

Cost of Popular Solar Battery Brands in 2025

Understanding solar battery costs is often the first step many take when considering swapping their backup power source. The problem? Finding the most accurate, up-to-date information regarding cost and availability is often difficult.  That’s why we’ve compiled the most accurate information for the industry’s leading brands at the time of this publication. 

 

Product Name	Average Cost Range
Tesla Powerwall Batteries	$13,000 – $20,000+
LG Chem RESU 16H Prime	$11,000 – $12,000+
Sonnen EcoLinx	$25,000 – $30,000+
Enphase Ensemble	$22,000 – $65,000+

Factors Influencing Solar Battery Costs 

The upfront cost of solar batteries can feel a bit shocking if you’re not aware of the full spectrum of benefits and features they have to offer. Here’s a quick breakdown of the factors that influence your solar battery cost, giving you the information you need to make the best decision for your home. 

Battery Features

As with most home products, the features included in your solar systems impact the overall cost of the product. Different features to evaluate include: 

 

• Battery type: Batteries typically fall into three chemistry categories: lithium-ion, lead-acid, and flow battery. Each chemistry type has its pros and cons. Lithium-ion batteries, for example,  can be more expensive than the others — but they typically last longer. 

• Technology used: If a battery uses advanced technologies (like smart battery management systems), this may increase the cost. However, the return on investment may be worth it to some, as the battery will last longer. 

• Battery capacity: Higher capacity batteries cost more, requiring more resources to manufacture. However, those looking to maximize their energy storage may be willing to pay this upfront cost. 

• Battery size: Your solar power system’s size impacts the unit’s cost and mounting tech needed. More compact designs are typically more expensive, as they require advanced technology and craftsmanship to produce. 

• Battery inverter type: Batteries have two inverter types: AC- and DC-coupled inverters. AC-coupled systems are typically more expensive than DC-coupled systems. However, their efficiency can make up for their cost in some cases. 

Brand and Manufacturer Differences 

Different brands and manufacturers have different manufacturing processes. Depending on how they are logistically executed and the global availability of materials, these can drive the cost up and down. 

 

Additional brand and manufacturing differences that affect battery prices include individual company margins and rolling sales that companies might offer to remain competitive. 

Number of Solar Batteries Installed 

The number of batteries required for a successful solar battery install is typically determined by the battery’s storage capacity and the household energy needs and preferences. For example, a home with extra amenities that require power (such as a pool pump or an electric vehicle charger) may require extra capacity than a small, single-bedroom apartment.  

 

Once the number of batteries needed is determined, the cost can be as well — and it’s typically directly proportional to the amount of batteries used to cover a specific property. 

Geographical Location 

The scarcity of products and high demand for resources always affect end costs — and the solar industry is no exception to this rule. If you live in an area where skilled solar technicians are in short demand or in a rural area that requires extra shipping to send items to, you can expect this to impact your bottom line cost. 

Inverter

Your inverter is responsible for converting direct current (DC) from your solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity for your home or space. There are many different types, qualities, and capacities when it comes to converters — and all of these factors affect the end price of your inverter (and your solar battery unit). 

 

Typically, string inverters are cheaper than hybrid inverters (and are generally a good choice). However, they may require additional accessories to complete the installation, which can increase the total price of your installation. 

Your Current System 

Whether you’ve installed a solar system recently or a while ago, your current system plays a role in your solar battery cost today. For example, if your home’s solar panel system is outdated or faulty, you may need a replacement in addition to battery costs to complete the installation process successfully. 

Incentives and Rebates 

There can be a lot of hidden costs in the solar battery process. The good news? There can be plenty of ways to save as well. Many homeowners on the market today leverage battery incentives and rebates to make their solar battery installation process more affordable. If you’re unsure where to start, research available federal tax credit programs, state-level incentives, and any programs available through your local utility companies. You may also want to investigate available subsidies if there are any that you’d qualify for.  

How Solar Batteries Work 

Once installed, a solar battery works round the clock to store excess energy from solar panels for situations when sunlight may be less available — such as during overcast days or the evening hours. 

 

Ready for a little solar 101? Here’s the five-step process your battery takes to store this extra energy: 

• Energy is gathered: Before any energy can be siphoned or stored, it must first be gathered from the solar panels located elsewhere on your house. 

• Energy transforms: Once gathered through the panel, the DC current flows to an inverter — transforming into AC electricity that powers your home and space. 

• Energy is allocated: After this transformation takes place, anything that’s unused by your appliances or processes will be stored, charging your batteries. 

• Energy is cycled: Once the sun goes down, these batteries will power your appliances using excess solar energy instead of the direct flow from your panels, like you’d use in the daytime. 

Types of Solar Batteries 

Considering investing in off-grid solar batteries? You’re in good company. Here are the many types of solar batteries to continue as you move toward total energy independence: 

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most popular battery types for energy storage systems. While they come at a higher-than-average cost, they are highly sustainable for residential use — cycling 4,000+ times over their lifespan. This translates to over 10 years of use for the average homeowner, even with a daily charging cycle. Most sources estimate that lithium-ion-based solar batteries cost between $10,000-$15,000+ — with more expensive models offering advanced features and technologies for advanced support. 

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries, or “deep cycle batteries,” are a fantastic choice if sustainability and durability are a priority for your home. They don’t produce instantaneous power as quickly as other models, allowing for even power distribution as household needs draw it. Unfortunately, however, many types of lead-acid batteries require testing and watering for optimal function. If you choose a lead-acid battery for your solar storage, consider an absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery type — which costs about $100-$650+.

Saltwater Batteries 

These battery types are a favorite green energy solution, as they use raw natural materials to convert energy rather than traditional heavy-duty chemicals. Many appreciate their cost-effectiveness and simple manufacturing process, especially if they live in a space that doesn’t experience high energy demands and surges. Unfortunately, saltwater batteries have density and energy output limitations — unlike their lithium- and lead-based counterparts. 

 

Before investing about $2,000-$11,000+ into a saltwater system, we recommend you consider your household’s energy needs and the time you have to spend maintaining your saltwater battery (if you don’t opt for an AGM type). 

Flow Batteries 

Flow batteries are universally known as the “longest-lasting” batteries ever made, as they can handle over 20,000 cycles on average. This translates to about 25 years of energy storage support. The downside of using flow batteries as solar batteries is the cost, as the core material, vanadium, is a trade-scarce item that primarily comes from China and Russia’s petroleum and iron refining processes. Many experts estimate that prices can soar to double the cost of a lithium-ion model as a result, possibly costing between $20,000-$30,000+ end-to-end.

Pros and Cons of Solar Batteries 

Before you decide if solar batteries are right for you, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons that come with their installation and use. 

 

Pros of Solar Batteries 

Many homeowners appreciate solar batteries, as they: 

• Provide a backup power source: When it’s overcast or dark outside, you won’t have to worry about accessing your favorite powered appliances. 

• Increase the energy independence and reliability of a home: While the electricity grid is available to those who want to use it, many homeowners prefer energy self-sufficiency. 

• Decrease their carbon footprint: Going green gets easier when you can harness the power of clean energy. 

• Save money on electrical bills: Despite initial installation costs, homeowners can walk away with significant savings from slashed energy bills and installation incentive programs. 

• Allow for smarter power management: Solar batteries help homeowners understand their demand, helping them optimize their use over time.  

• Increase property value: Installing advanced home features like solar panels may increase property value, especially when maintained well. 

 

Cons of Solar Batteries

While there are plenty of pros to solar batteries, there are also cons to consider, such as:  

• High upfront costs: While most solar models offer the potential for savings on electricity bills, the initial cost of a solar system can feel like a large investment.

• Space consumption: Solar batteries take up extra space, which may not be ideal for some homeowners. 

• Slow return on investment (ROI): The decision to invest in solar batteries should come down to a homeowner’s ability to invest and wait for a return. Solar investments offer ROI over time in the form of disbursements from federal solar tax credit programs and savings off of your bills. However, as mentioned above, they can be costly. It’s ultimately up to the homeowner to determine if that liquid commitment and ROI time is feasible to take on when they make the investment.

Considering an upgrade? 

Solar batteries are a convenient method of power storage, as they’re sustainable, resilient, and scalable to your budget. The type and capacity of solar battery you need is dependent on the energy patterns and expectations of the house. Speaking with a solar specialist is the first step to take if you’re considering making an upgrade. Connect with the team at Heliose to speak with a local installer today.

Frequently asked questions 

How long do solar batteries last?

Solar batteries can last between 10 to 15 years, on average. However, the duration of time they last typically comes down to the battery’s composition and the house’s use patterns. 

 

What is the average cost of a solar battery?

Most batteries can range anywhere between $10,000-$22,000+, falling either below, in, or past this range. Ultimately, solar battery costs come down to battery composition, size, output, technology, and inverter type — and may further vary depending on the availability of core materials at any given time.

Can you install a solar battery without solar panels? 

Yes, you can install a solar battery without solar panels. This is known as a standalone battery storage system. Homeowners who choose not to install solar panels on their home often treat them as a “backup” independent power supply.

How long can a solar battery run my appliances? 

The answer to this question depends on two key areas: how many appliances are drawing power at a given time (such as your air conditioner or your hair dryer) and how big your battery is. Consider connecting with a local specialist for an accurate estimation as you leverage solar power for your home. 

Installing solar power for the home is an economical and environmentally friendly way to upgrade. With an annual growth rate of 25%, the utilization of solar power continues to increase year by year, per the Solar Energy Industries Association. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why more and more homeowners are opting for solar panels to meet their energy needs. 

 

In addition to the money you can save and the renewable energy you generate, there are several other major benefits. You can potentially earn revenue by selling excess energy back to the power company, increase your home’s value, and protect yourself from electricity grid failures. 

 

We’ll address these topics and more below.

In this article: 

• What is Solar Power and How Does It Work? 
• Pros and Cons of a Home Solar Power System
• Components of a Home Solar Power System
• Types of Solar Power Systems
• Assessing Suitability for Home Solar Power
• Cost and Financial Considerations
• Installation
• Environmental and Social Impact
• Why Solar Panels Make Sense
•  Frequently asked questions 

What Is Solar Power and How Does It Work? 

The key to understanding solar power 101 is knowing how photovoltaics (PV) convert sunlight into usable electricity. Here’s how solar power works:

 

• During the day, solar panels absorb power from the sun. 
• PV cell circuits in the panels gather that energy and convert it into direct current energy (DC).
• Then, the DC energy travels through an inverter, transforming the energy into usable alternating current (AC) electricity. 
• AC energy can be used for electricity, stored for later, or recycled back to the power grid. 

 

Panels are usually installed on the roof of a home, and the inverter is somewhere out of sight, like in a garage. The average home using solar power needs between 15 and 20 full-sized panels to power the house full-time. 

Pros and Cons of a Home Solar Power System

While solar power is a terrific way to offset your home’s electricity costs and reduce your carbon footprint, the technology has its pros and cons. To better understand each side, we’ve broken them down as follows: 

Pros of a Home Solar Power System

• Solar power panels work in all climates. 
• Battery backup systems are available in case of power loss. 
• You become energy-independent and not reliant on a public grid system. 
• Solar panels can increase home value. 
• Reduce your carbon footprint by using a renewable energy source. 
• Panels can create a protective layer on your roof. 
• You can receive special tax credits to offset the cost of solar power installation.

Cons of a Home Solar Power System

• High start-up cost. 
• Panels require a lot of space. 
• You become more reliant on the weather for consistent electricity. 
• Solar panels don’t last forever, and there are very few recycling programs for dead/broken panels.

Components of a Home Solar Power System

Solar panels themselves may be a flourish to a home, but they are only one element of an intricate solar power system. After all, you can’t operate the panels without the rest of the pieces. 

Solar Panels

We mentioned previously that solar panels are made up of PV cells that convert sunlight into usable electricity. As the cells absorb sunlight, electrical charges start flowing. 

 

A solar panel with an average amount of sunlight can generate around 2 kilowatt-hours (kWh) a day, but could potentially create up to 4 per day. That’s why homes generally have between 15-20 panels to generate enough electricity to power what they need and store the rest. 

Inverters

After the direct current is captured from the solar panels, the inverter changes the electricity into alternating current. This is necessary because home appliances cannot use DC; they need the AC to operate correctly. 

Battery Storage Systems

The sun isn’t always shining, which is why you want battery storage with a solar panel system. When the panels generate more energy than you’re using, the excess electricity gets stored in your battery storage system. That way, at nighttime or on cloudy days, you can utilize that extra power without losing it. 

Mounting and Racking Equipment

Just like putting a television on a wall, your solar panel has to be connected to something. A mounting and racking system is what holds your panels in place on the roof or in a ground mounting system. This equipment usually includes clamps, flashings, grounding, mounts and rails. These pieces are important to ensure the solar panels stay in place. 

Monitoring Systems

The monitoring system is the part of a solar power system you would interact with the most. These programs analyze and track how the solar panels function and how much energy your home uses. 

 

Without these systems, you may not know that one of the panels is malfunctioning, your home is using too much power, or your solar batteries are full — which means you’re losing any excess power the panels created.

Types of Solar Power Systems

When determining what kind of solar power system is right for you, one of the considerations you have to make is which kind of system to choose. Generally, the three types collect power in the same way. The main difference is how each of them distributes that power.   

Grid-Tied Solar Power Systems

Some homeowners opt to remain connected to the local power grid — that’s why this type is called grief-tied solar power. Instead of putting excess energy into your solar batteries, it’s sent out to the utility grid, which can result in some revenue from the power company. 

 

• Pros:
  • Low maintenance
  • Least expensive to install
  • Generally more reliable
  • Make money from excess power sold to utility
• Cons: 
  • Still dependent on local utility grid
  • More fees
  • Will lose power during blackout (unless you have battery backup)

Off-Grid Solar Power Systems

Unlike a tied-grid power system, an off-grid solar power system doesn’t keep you connected to the local electric utility company. Because of this, you can be totally self-sufficient with your energy needs. Excess energy is stored in solar batteries rather than sent to the local utility. 

 

• Pros: 
  • No blackouts from grid outages
  • Self-sufficient
  • No electric utility bill
• Cons: 
  • More expensive to install
  • No backup energy 
  • Must do maintenance on batteries
  • Extra energy is wasted if batteries are full

Hybrid Solar Power Systems

The best of both worlds, a hybrid solar power system has elements of both grid-tied and off-grid systems. With a hybrid system, you’re still tied to the local utility system, but you also have battery storage. 

 

• Pros: 
  • No blackouts if the grid goes down
  • Storage capabilities for excess energy
  • More energy independence than tied-grid systems
• Cons: 
  • Still pay an energy utility bill
  • More expensive to install

Assessing Suitability for Home Solar Power

Not every home is suitable for home solar power installation. A range of considerations must be made before transitioning to solar. 

Assess Energy Efficiency

Even if your home can host a solar panel system, that doesn’t mean your household is ready for it. Before converting to solar power, you must understand how you and your family use electricity. You can do this by conducting a home energy audit to evaluate how efficient your home is with power. 

 

An auditor will look into your home’s appliances, cooling and heating systems, and even the insulation of your home. They will seek out things like air leaks that lead to higher heating and cooling costs and how efficient the electronics and appliances in your home are. 

Assess Solar Potential

In addition to an energy audit, you’ll want to hire experts to assess your home’s solar potential. Solar site assessments will find any logistical problems that could inhibit solar panel installation. 

 

These assessors will look at:

• Any necessary local permits are needed. 
• The condition of the roof and whether the slope can sustain panels. 
• Identify nearby shade that could inhibit sunlight absorption. 
• Assess the electrical system to determine if it can take on the additional energy created by a solar power system. 

Cost and Financial Considerations

How much it costs to install a solar power system largely depends on a few things, like where you live and how much energy you typically use. From there, the kind of system you want to install can also make a huge price difference. 

 

It’s important to know that there are several financial incentives and payment plans to make solar power more accessible for homeowners. Generally, the average cost before credits or other incentives runs from $25,000 to $50,000. 

Financing Solar

While some homeowners can buy a solar power system outright, that isn’t the case for everyone. Like other major purchases, you can take out loans and make monthly payments on them. A specific loan is available for these systems, called a solar loan. 

 

Additionally, there’s a program for solar known as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). A PPA is not a loan. Instead, it’s a plan in which a third party owns and operates the solar power system on your property, and you purchase electricity from them for a set period. 

 

PPAs will save you less money in the long run but are a viable option if you don’t have the money to install a system yourself. 

Incentives and Rebates 

Many homeowners can save money on their solar power systems by utilizing tax credits, rebates and incentives like state-specific sales tax exemptions, which don’t charge sales tax on solar power systems. Some states also have property tax exemptions that exclude the value of the system from a home’s value. 

 

Remember that you cannot claim incentives if you are in a PPA because you don’t own the system.

 

A few other money-saving programs include: 

• Residential renewable energy tax credit: 30% of the system cost back on annual taxes (through 2032)
• Solar Renewable Energy Certificates or net metering: Selling excess energy back to the local utility company 
• Vendor or company-specific rebates

Calculating ROI

Breaking even or achieving a return on investment for your solar power system will vary based on where you live, the cost of installation, and the rebates/tax breaks you receive. However, the general formula for determining your ROI is: 

 

(System Cost) – (Cost x .3 for Tax Credit) = (Initial Investment) 

 

Followed by (Initial Investment/Annual Energy Costs) = (Pay-Off Period)

 

For example: 25,000 – 7,500 = 17,500

17,500/1500 = 11.66 years

Installation

Unlike many other home projects, a solar power system has several more steps than simply buying the equipment and getting it installed. On average, it can take two to six months before you can actually start using the system. 

 

Here are the steps to fully installing your power system: 

 

• Site assessment
• Design review/approval
• Local permitting
• Installing the system
• City/local municipality inspection
• Connecting utilities
• Turning on the system

Environmental and Social Impact

According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the positive impacts of solar power systems are huge. These systems help reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and reduce impacts on local ecosystems. 

 

Beyond environmental effects, there are myriad social impacts for these systems as well. Not only do they create jobs, but they can also increase home values (at an average of 4% or greater) and help households become more energy-resilient against natural disasters. 

Why Solar Panels Make Sense

Whether you want to save money on your utilities, protect the Earth, or anything in between, solar panel installation can be a good home investment. These systems last for decades and pay for themselves in just a fraction of that time. 

 

Call a certified solar expert today to get started! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much solar power do you need to run a house? 

Since the average household uses roughly 900 kWh per month, most homes will need between 15 to 20 solar panels. That’s because, with average sun exposure, each panel will produce approximately two kWh per day. 

How long can a house run on solar power alone? 

A home can run indefinitely on just solar power alone. However, during a period of no/little sunlight, a home will only be able to operate with a solar battery for just a day or two. 

Is installing solar panels worth it? 

Depending on your household needs, solar panels can be worth it. They can increase your home value, reduce your reliance on the local power grid, and save you money on your electricity costs. 

Can you run air conditioning with solar power? 

Absolutely! How long you can run an air conditioner on solar power depends on how much wattage your unit has and how much power your solar panels create. 

What maintenance is required for residential solar panels? 

The great thing about solar panels is that they require very little maintenance. They last between 20-30 years and can be repaired by professionals if needed. However, you will need to do more maintenance on solar batteries. 

What is the average cost of installing solar panels for your home?

Since the cost of solar panel installation varies so widely, it can be hard to pinpoint the exact amount. In the U.S., the range for installation (before tax rebates and other incentives) is between $25,000 and $50,000.