1. What is a Solar System Sizing Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the required size of a solar power system based on your daily energy consumption and available sunlight hours.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and businesses determine the appropriate solar panel system capacity needed to meet their energy requirements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Size} \) — Solar system capacity (kilowatts)
• \( \text{Load} \) — Daily energy consumption (kilowatt-hours)
• \( \text{Solar Hours} \) — Peak sunlight hours per day (typically 4-6 hours)

Explanation: Your daily energy load is divided by the average peak sunlight hours to determine the required system size that can generate enough power each day.

3. Importance of Proper Solar System Sizing

Details: Correct sizing ensures your solar system meets your energy needs without over-investing in unnecessary capacity, while accounting for seasonal variations in sunlight.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average daily energy consumption in kWh (check your utility bills) and your location's average peak sunlight hours (default 4.5). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are "solar hours"?
A: Solar hours represent the equivalent number of hours per day when sunlight intensity is at its peak (1000 W/m²). This accounts for variations in sunlight throughout the day.

Q2: How do I find my daily energy load?
A: Check your electricity bills for monthly kWh usage, then divide by 30 to get daily average. Smart meters can provide more precise daily data.

Q3: What's a typical solar hours value?
A: Most locations get 4-6 peak sun hours daily. Desert areas may get 6-7, while northern regions might get 3-4 in winter.

Q4: Does this include battery storage?
A: No, this calculates the solar array size only. Battery storage calculations require additional factors like days of autonomy.

Q5: Should I add a safety margin?
A: Yes, consider adding 10-20% to account for system losses, panel degradation, and future energy needs.