How Many Solar Panels are Needed to Run a Home?
Introduction
Having a solar powered home is an attractive option for many homeowners, since it provides a way to save money, reduce energy costs, and take advantage of renewable energy sources. This article will provide an overview of how many solar panels are needed to run a home. We will look at factors affecting the number of solar panels needed; geographic location; panel specifications; the average amount of solar panels needed for a home; differences between utility bills; and the future of solar energy.
Factors Affecting the Number of Solar Panels Needed
A variety of factors impact the number of solar panels required to run a home, including the size of the home, the amount of energy required to power it, and how much sunlight is available. The roof where the solar panels will be installed, local weather conditions, and the type and size of the panels also have bearing on the amount of equipment required and installation costs.
Geographic Location
The geographic location of a home affects the amount and quality of solar energy it receives. Typically, the further south one goes, the greater the potential solar energy that can be harvested. Areas with higher irradiation levels have a greater chance of reducing energy bills with solar. Of course, landscapes in the northern hemisphere may not receive much sunshine during winter months, so a greater number of solar panels may be necessary to really reduce bills.
Panel Specifications
The individual specifications of solar panels also impact the overall system. Battery storage capacity, temperature ratings, current ratings, and lifetime energy output are some of the features to consider when shopping for solar panels. Generally, the larger the panel, the more energy it produces. However, space constraints and budget may limit the number of panels that can be installed. For average-sized homes, a combination of larger and smaller solar panel models are usually the best option.
Average Amount of Solar Panels Needed for a Home
An average home needs between 17 and 21 solar panels to fully offset energy costs. Of course, this number increases if a homeowner wants to produce more energy than necessary or is living in an area with less light. Smaller homes may require fewer panels, while larger homes may need as many as 35 panels or more to offset all energy costs.
Differences Between Utility Bills
Homes running on solar energy typically have lower power bills than those that are not. This is due to the reduced cost of generating energy with solar panels and the net metering system, which allows surplus energy to be sold back to the grid. This can result in a yearly savings of up to 50-70% off current utility bills, depending on system size and geographic location.
Future of Solar Energy
Solar energy is one of the fastest growing sources of renewable energy in the world. The technology has come a long way in recent years, and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the USA’s solar energy production is expected to triple by 2023. This increases the chances of more homeowners reducing their energy costs with solar.
Conclusion
The number of solar panels needed to run a home varies based on a few key factors, including geographic location, panel specifications, and the size of the home. Generally, an average home requires between 17 and 21 solar panels to fully offset utility bills with solar energy. Additionally, homeowners with solar powered homes can save up to 50-70% on their power bills. The future of solar energy is also promising, with a tripling of solar production predicted by 2023.
