Make your business environment friendly with a solar power system medium size 30kW
Solar power is widely recognized as a straightforward and efficient solution to cut CO2 emissions and power charges, but not all solar panel systems are the same. Some are not intended to cope with the heat in areas like Brisbane, Queensland and so on, and others do not function particularly well. Poor performance will reduce your system’s sustainability and financial return. You can best safeguard your investment by choosing high-quality, life-saving solar equipment in Brisbane from us at SFR Electrical.
Our 30KW solar system solution fulfills the company and enterprise owners’ requirements in Australia. It is efficient, climate-resilient and able to meet day-to-day power requirements. The 30 kW solar power system also has the calibre to deliver optimal production efficiently for large-scale business activities. You will not only save on electricity bills but you have the added benefit of being a green business operator and can earn a good reputation as an environmentally friendly organization.
about 30kW Solar Power System
Salient 30kW solar system characteristics
Long-term performance, resilient solar panels
Solar components and installations authorized by CEC for optimal efficiency
Optimum output high-grade inverter.
Reliable installation and maintenance in Brisbane and Queensland with 30 kW solar energy system assistance
Best price for a 30kW solar power system in Brisbane and throughout Queensland.
The solar system comes with panels, an inverter, a mounting kit, fast installation, and a grid connection. The solar panels are of reputed brand, highly efficient, tier 1 solar module, and with local Australian support. The inverter has a proven track record and optional online monitoring facilities. The mounting kit is equipped with a flexible roof mounting solution, and available in different varieties such as tin, tile, and clip lock. It is anodized and corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and easily installable by an electrician. The solar installation will be done by a CEC accredited electrician, who is professionally trained for these types of solar installations, and who has significant experience in the same field.
TECH SPECS
Some technical specifications for Power System of Solar 20 kW includes
Solar Panels
High-quality Monocrystalline Solar Panels (Tier-1)
Solar Inverter
A reputable manufacturer’s 30kW inverter that is approved by CEC-accredited technicians.
Mounting Electrical Kits
Mounting Electric kits in accordance with the Australian standards
Our 30kW Solar Power System is capable of producing optimal output for large-scale commercial activities efficiently. Not only will you save money on energy costs, but you will also be able to project yourself as a green business operator, bringing your company long-term goodwill.
With a high-quality 30kW inverter and 132 X 300w or 120 X 330w solar panels, you effectively get a 39.6 kW solar power system at very affordable prices.
A 30kW Solar Power System’s average payback period might range from 3 to 5 years. The payback period is determined by a few things including usage during daylight hours and the type of electrical equipment used in the office or shed.
A typical 30kW Solar Power System will cost between 22000 and 27000 for a standard metropolitan installation. A standard metro installation comprises installing a metro system on a single-story house with a tin roof in a metro area. The cost of a 30kW Solar Power System will vary depending on whether it is installed on a high shed or on a flat area.
The cost of a typical 30kW Solar Power System will also vary depending on the brand of panels and inverter used.
A 330w solar panel has dimensions of 1.675m X 1m, meaning it will take up around 1.675 square meters of space. A total of 120 such panels will take up approximately 201 square meters of space. It is generally advisable to remember to take an additional bit of space depending on the roof type, roof dimension, and panel capacity. As a result, around 210-225 square meters of the area will be required to install a 30kW Solar Power System.
A 30kW Solar Power System for your business is regarded as a long-term investment that can produce results over the next 10-15 years. The electrical grid in Brisbane is one of the most expensive in the world. When it comes to keeping your business premises energised 24 hours a day, the traditional grid may not be the most cost-effective option. A 30kW Solar Power System is advantageous for your business because it significantly cuts your electricity expenditures while also reducing your reliance on grid power.
If you consume the whole power generated by the solar system and have an average daily power generation of 120kW per day and pay a 25c tariff to your electricity supplier, a 30kW Solar Power System can help you save 30 per day. In this circumstance, your annual savings will be approximately 10950.
kw solar system cost
Customer Testimonials
“Having solar panels has given me reassurance that my bills will stay manageable.”
— Kerrie Lane, Egg Harbor City, NJ
With Sunrun, you can take control of your own electricity, and not be left at the whims of your utility company with the next inevitable rate hike. Join the more than a quarter of a million American households who have gone solar with Sunrun.
Whenever you’re ready, our solar advisors are here to help. We can provide you with a free quote. Feel free to try our Cost of Solar Calculator.
A single solar panel costs between 2.67 and 3.43 to buy and install. 4 The price of the whole system is based on its capacity, measured in watts. How big a system you need will be based on how much energy you use, your roof’s sunlight exposure and panel efficiency.
The amount you save will rely on several factors, including: 18
- Region’s sunlight exposure
- Cost of solar system (including battery, where available)
- Cost of electricity
- Energy use
- Local rebates and incentives
The average payback period for a residential solar system is between six to nine years, depending on the cost of your system, incentives and savings from your energy bill. 19
Here’s a closer look at some of the things that determine your system costs.
Here’s a breakdown of installation costs, based on findings from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory: 10
| Labor | 0.30 per watt |
| Panels | 0.47/Wdc |
| Inverter | 0.12/Wdc. 0.39/Wdc |
| Permit/Inspection | 0.06/Wdc |
| Structural BOS | 0.10/Wdc |
| Electrical BOS | 0.19–0.27/Wdc (Varies by inverter option) |
| Sales tax | Sales tax varies by location; weighted national average: 6.9% |
| Electrician | 19.74–38.96 per hour (Varies by location and inverter option) |
| Laborer | 12.88–25.57 per hour (Varies by location and inverter option) |
| Burden rates | (% of direct labor) Total nationwide average: 31.8% |
Figures based on the average 6.2 kilowatt residential solar system.
These figures are based on the average 6.2 kilowatt solar system. The cost of each system will vary based on panel manufacturer, inverter option, location and equipment.
Maintenance of solar panels ranges from routine cleaning to major repairs. On average, households pay 150 for one solar panel cleaning. 11 Companies charge between 3 to 10 per panel based on roof slant, home height and system size. 11 Some firms charge a flat rate fee for a system cleaning. If you clean your system twice a year, as recommended, you can expect an annual bill of about 300.
If your system is damaged, you may incur additional expenses. Repairs to your system will include the of equipment and labor. Labor is typically priced at 100 per hour. Materials for solar repairs could be as little as 180 but may also be greater than 1,000. Your combined, total bill may range from 200 to 3,000. 11
The four most common types of damage to a home solar system and the costs of repairs area: 11
| Broken glass panel | 20 – 350, plus labor |
| Cracked panel | 100 – 400 |
| Loose connection | 100 |
| Replacement inverter | 100 – 2,500 |
Like cleaning costs, the amount you pay for repairs is affected by things like roof steepness, system type and system size. And if your panels have extensive damage, it may be cheaper to replace them. 11
When you own your system, you are responsible for the cost of maintenance and repairs. Your warranty should cover specific system failures; contact your installer before you begin repairs. A Sunrun solar lease, lets you save thousands of dollars in maintenance and repairs. You simply pay for the power, and we take care of the rest. Our comprehensive service package features the Sunrun Guarantee, which includes best-in-class monitoring, free equipment replacement, and system repairs including parts and labor, and routine maintenance.
If you’re set on buying your own home solar system, you can also purchase our full-service package, Protection Plus. While the system is yours, we’ll give you the same comprehensive support that comes with our Sunrun Guarantee.
Panel manufacturer
The price of your panels will depend on the manufacturer. Sunrun partners with LG, a world leader in solar technology and panels. Striking the right balance between quality, efficiency and affordability, LG offers some of the best solar panels on the market today. 14
For a given manufacturer, higher efficiency panels cost more. 5 The good news is that the highest efficiency panels aren’t always needed, especially if your roof gets plenty of sun.
Your state
Another factor in determining your total home solar system cost is where you live. Here are the states with the lowest and highest average solar system costs:
| Florida: 9,198 – 11,970 | Rhode Island: 13,104 – 15,792 |
| Arizona: 10,332 – 12,096 | New York: 12,264 – 16,044 |
| Maryland: 10,332 – 12,768 |
after 30% federal solar tax credit 5
Just because a residential solar system costs more in a given state doesn’t mean it’s any less cost effective. 5 Local incentives can make a huge dent in solar installation costs even in the most expensive states.
The three most common kinds of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film. 6 Here are the essential features of each:
| Monocrystalline | Monocrystalline are the most efficient on the market today, which means you need less panels to fulfill your energy needs. Monocrystalline solar cells are single-crystal silicon, giving electrons greater freedom to move and create electricity. 7 These panels are typically black, giving your roof a sleeker aesthetic. Monocrystalline panels also maintain their efficiency for longer and usually come with a 20 to 25 year guarantee. 6 |
| Polycrystalline | Polycrystalline panels are made with many fragments of silicon. 7 While this makes them less efficient, it creates less waste in production and are more affordable. 6 They also tend to have a blue tint, likely the most recognizable feature of solar panels today. |
| Thin-film | Unlike monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, thin-film isn’t made of silicon. Instead, it’s layered with photovoltaic materials on metal or glass. 8 While the least expensive option, thin-film isn’t as efficient and likely won’t cover the average household’s energy needs without taking up lots of space. 6 |
The type of solar panel you choose will factor into the price of the system. But remember that if you decide to lease, you’ll be paying for the power rather than the panels. The cost of solar will come down to the amount of solar power you’re projected to use under your lease agreement.
Solar panel mount types
While solar panels are the main component of a solar system, how you mount the panels will also affect the cost. There are three mount types: 6
| Fix-mount | 10–15 per mount | Fixed-mount are stationary and can’t be moved to capture more sunlight, making them less efficient than other mounts. However, they’re also the least expensive. In addition, states with consistent sunlight such as Arizona and California are the least affected by this. |
| Adjustable-mount | 50 per mount | Adjustable-mounts can be tilted to maximize solar energy production. This mount type can also lay your panels flat during a storm to avoid wind damage. While they’re more expensive than fixed mounts, adjustable-mounts might make the most sense for regions with more seasonal climates and less space to maximize energy production. |
| Tracking-mount | 500–3,000 per mount | Tracking-mount follows the sun’s arch for maximum energy production. Even though they’re the most expensive, track-mounting could add 45% in energy production and might be worth considering based on your location. However, track mounting also requires more attention and will be much more costly to maintain. |
KW Solar System.
Commercial solar systems come in a wide range of kiloWatt (kW) ratings. The kW rating refers to a solar system’s capacity for energy output in conditions of unobstructed sunlight. Systems sized at around the 30kW size are a popular choice for commercial sites with low to medium energy usage – with annual electricity costs of around 15,000.
System Design
All solar systems are designed in accordance to what suits your needs and the building roof – material, angle, direction and structural integrity. This can range from black panels, frameless panels or an arrangement to keep the system hidden from view on the street.
How long will my system last?
Solar PV systems are made up of panels and inverters. Tier 1 reputable panels have performance warranties of 25 years and product warranties of 12-25 years (depending on the brand) and inverters can have warranties of 10 years
System Output
Depending on the Watt of the panels (or modules) will depend on how many you need. The higher the Watt of the panel, the less panels you will need. If each panel Watt is 330kW, you would need 91 panels.
Product quality
Cherry Energy Solutions only use Tier 1, quality photovoltaic panels (or modules) and inverters that have the best reputations in the market as well as Australian warranties.
System Cost
Your savings will vary depending on the size of your system, your current energy consumption, electricity rates and when you use your energy.
Payback duration
The payback duration depends on whether you pay cash up front, take out a chattel mortgage, Energy Upgrade Finance, lease or PPA.
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need To Power a House?
The goal for any solar project should be 100% electricity offset and maximum savings — not necessarily to cram as many panels on a roof as possible. So, the number of panels you need to power a house varies based on three main factors:
In this article, we’ll show you how to manually calculate how many panels you’ll need to power your home. Once you have an estimate for the number of panels, you’re one step close to figuring out how much solar costs for your home, and how much you can save on electricity bills
How many solar panels do you need to power a house?
While it varies from home to home, the US households typically need between 10 and 20 solar panels to entirely offset their average annual electricity consumption.
The goal of most solar projects is to offset your electric bill 100%, so your solar system is sized to fit your average electricity use. Here’s a basic equation you can use to get an estimate of how many solar panels you need to power your home:
Solar panel wattage x peak sun hours x number of panels = daily electricity use
Obviously, electricity use, peak sun hours, and panel wattage will be different for everyone. And since you didn’t come here to do algebra, we’ll go through how to figure out each variable and run through an example scenario based on national averages.
First, find how many kilowatt-hours you use to run your house
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average US household in 2021 used 10,632 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year. That’s equal to:
It’s important to note that this usage varies quite a bit from state to state. For example, the average daily usage was ~18 kWh in Hawaii and 40 kWh in Louisiana, which is quite a spread. But we’ll use the national average 30 kWh per day as the figure for our example.
The easiest way to find your daily electricity usage is to dig up some recent utility bills. Your bill should show your usage for 30 days (or whatever your payment period is) and you can use this to get a sense of your daily electricity consumption. Just take the total usage during the period, and divide it by the number of days.
Electricity usage varies from month to month, so the more bills you can average together, the more accurate your calculation will be.
Once you have your daily electricity usage, the next step is to figure out how many peak sun hours your system will get per day!
Next, determine how many peak sun hours your location gets
A big factor in determining how many solar panels you need to power your home is the amount of sunlight you get, known as peak sun hours.
A peak sun hour is when the intensity of sunlight (known as solar irradiance) averages 1,000 watts per square meter or 1 kW/m 2.
In the US, the average peak sun hours range from over 5.75 hours per day in the Southwest to less than 4 hours per day in the northernmost parts of the country.
Use the map above to estimate the average peak sun hours for your area, or use this peak sun hours calculator to get a precise figure for your location.
Here are some tips for using the peak sun hours calculator:
- The average roof pitch is between 14 and 27 degrees
- Use the compass on your phone to determine the Azimuth Angle of the roof face you’d put solar panels on (closest to 180 degrees is best)
Based on the map, about half the US gets less than 4.5 peak sun hours and half gets more, so we’ll use 4.5 peak sun hours as the figure for our example.
Finally, pick a solar panel power rating
The final variable is how much electricity each solar panel can produce per peak sun hour. This is called power rating and it’s measured in Watts.
Solar panel power ratings range from 250W to 450W. Based on solar.com sales data, 400W is by far the most popular power rating and provides a great balance of output and Price Per Watt (PPW).
If you have limited roof space, you may consider a higher power rating to use less panels. If you want to spend less per panel, you may consider a lower wattage. Everybody has different goals, and you should feel free to choose the panels that best suit your needs.
For the purposes of our example scenario, we’ll use 400W panels.
Calculate how many solar panels it takes to power a house
Now that we have our three variables, we can calculate how many solar panels it takes to power a house.
- Daily electricity consumption: 30 kWh (30,000 Watt-hours)
- Average peak sun hours: 4.5 hours per day
- Average panel wattage: 400W
To solve for the number of solar panels, we can rewrite the equation above like this:
Daily electricity consumption / peak sun hours / panel wattage = number of solar panels
Now let’s plug in our example figures:
30,000 Watt-hours / 4.5 peak sun hours / 400W = 16.66 panels
If we round up, it takes 17 solar panels to power the average American household and meet the goal of 100% electricity offset.
Now since we’re talking national averages, the national average electricity price in the US was 16.5 cents per kilowatt-hour in May 2023. Meanwhile, the average price of electricity from solar systems purchased on solar.com is between 6 and 8 cents per kilowatt-hour.
I’ll let you do the math there.
The easy way to find out how many solar panels you need
Now that we’ve gone through the manual calculations of finding out how many solar panels you need to power a house, we’ll show you the easy way. (I know, it’s middle school math class all over again).
Modern home solar projects are planned using satellite technology, and you can start planning your own project using our solar calculator. Simply punch in your address and set your average energy bill to calculate how big your solar system needs to be and how much you can save by switching to solar.
Under the average energy bill slider, the calculator will give you an estimated system size in kW. You can use this number to figure out how many panels you would need.
First, convert kW into Watts by multiplying by 1,000. So 5.2 kW would be 5,200 W.
Next divide the total system size in Watts by the power rating of the panels you’d prefer. If we use 400W, that would mean you need 13 solar panels.
System size (5,200 Watts) / Panel power rating (400 Watts) = 13 panels
Of course, the easiest way to know how many solar panels you need is to team up with an Energy Advisor to design a custom system.
Frequently asked questions
How many solar panels does it take to power a house?
Based on average electricity consumption and peak sun hours, it takes around 17 400-Watt solar panels to power a home. However, this number will vary between 13-19 based on how much sun the panels get and how much electricity the home uses.
Use the equation below to get an estimate of how many solar panels you need to power a house.
Daily electricity consumption / peak sun hours / panel wattage = number of solar panels
Can I run my house on solar only?
Absolutely. By pairing solar panels with battery storage, it is very possible to run a house on solar power alone. And in many areas it’s cheaper than paying for electricity through a local utility.
Without battery storage, you can still offset your grid electricity use with solar panels through net metering and eliminate your electricity bill. You will still be using grid electricity when solar generation is down, but you will only pay for your solar equipment.
Is 10 kW enough to run a house?
Yes, in many cases a 10 kW solar system is more than enough to power a house. The average US household uses around 30 kWh of electricity per day, which would require 5 kW to 8.5 kW solar system (depending on sun exposure) to offset 100%.
How much does it cost to go off-grid with solar?
Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.
As energy costs rise and concerns about the environment grow, homeowners are seeking their own energy solutions. Many homeowners have started installing solar panels to go “off-grid” and reduce their dependence on traditional electricity. Going completely off-grid or creating a stand-alone power system involves more than installing solar panels. Those who accomplish it untether their homes from the standard electrical power grid.
The cost to install an off-grid solar system varies based on your home’s location and the amount of electricity you use each day. The standard home uses a minimum of 7kW of electricity per day, which could require a system of six panels and three batteries. This system ranges from 45,000 to 65,000 to install before tax credits and rebates, with most homeowners spending around 55,000 for an installed 7kW system for a home with average energy needs in a moderately sunny climate. This project’s low cost is 20,000 to install an off-grid process for a home in a sunny climate with backup systems. The high cost is 100,000 for an installed 20kW system for a home in a moderately sunny climate with excessive energy needs.
Off-Grid Solar System Prices
| Off-Grid Solar System Costs | |
| National average cost | 55,000 |
| Average range | 45,000-65,000 |
| Low-end | 20,000 |
| High-end | 100,000 |
What Is an Off-Grid Solar System?
Off-grid solar systems can generate your home’s or business’ electrical needs without relying on the electrical grid. The system is made of multiple parts designed to help generate and store energy. The system works by harnessing the sun’s energy using solar panels, which are mounted on the roof, a pole near the home, or both. The energy harnessed by the panels charges batteries via a charge controller, and the batteries store the energy until needed. Then, an inverter converts the charge from the batteries into electricity. By storing energy until it is needed, you can eliminate the need to be tied to the electrical grid. Most systems need a backup energy source but can be useful for homes located in rural areas or homeowners who want to be self-reliant.
Compare from off-grid solar system installers near me
What Does It Mean to Go Off the Grid?
To go completely off-grid, your entire home must run on electricity or energy that you produce yourself, usually through solar power. Being off-grid means your home is not connected to the town’s electricity grid or supply. Installing solar panels alone is not enough to be considered off-grid, and most people who use solar energy still rely on electricity from an outside source. If you are using solar panels to lower your energy costs, you are likely still connected to the grid. You can rely on traditional sources if your panels do not produce enough energy.
To go completely off-grid, you need a much larger system and a storage system to smooth out energy production and usage over time, storing excess energy as it is produced to use later. You also need a way to transfer energy into the batteries and convert it to electricity. Many people also install an extra backup system like a generator or wind power for times when solar power cannot be relied on.
Off-Grid Solar System Cost by Size
You can purchase solar systems in many sizes. However, not all of these systems can go off-grid. If you live in a very sunny climate and you have a backup system, you can go off-grid at 3kW or 4kW. The minimum for most homes is 5kW to 7kW, and if you have higher-than-average electricity demands, expect to need at least 10kW. In many areas, even 5kW may not be enough to go off-grid unless you live in a very sunny climate. 7kW is usually considered the average most homes require, but 10kW may be the minimum you need if you live in a climate without much sun.
There are smaller systems, and if you want to go off-grid with them, you need to use them as a supplemental system. 1kW, 2kW, and other small systems can be used for tiny homes, RVs, and other smaller structures. However, they are most commonly used as a supplementary system. Other systems producing or acquiring energy can help complete your off-grid setup rather than create it.
You can also find systems that are 20kW or larger. These are generally for businesses or farms with higher energy needs than the ordinary residence.
Below are the average costs for a range of system sizes:
| System Size | Average Costs (Materials Only) | Average Cost (Installed) |
| 1kW | 10,800. 13,500 | 12,000. 15,000 |
| 2kW | 18,000. 22,500 | 20,000. 25,000 |
| 3kW | 27,000. 31,500 | 30,000. 35,000 |
| 4kW | 31,500. 36,000 | 35,000. 40,000 |
| 5kW | 36,000. 40,500 | 40,000. 45,000 |
| 10kW | 63,000. 72,000 | 70,000. 80,000 |
| 20kW | 90,000. 108,000 | 100,000. 120,000 |
| 30kW | 108,000. 135,000 | 120,000. 150,000 |
Off-Grid Solar Cost by Type
Not all solar systems are created equally, nor do all of them use the same parts. What might work well for a small home in a very sunny area may not work for a larger home in an area with more shade. For this reason, several systems can be used to go off-grid. Most people ultimately use AC solar or an AC system with a backup generator to ensure continued electricity, even in inclement weather. However, you can use smaller and less expensive systems that rely on wind power or use fewer batteries if you have lower energy needs. Below are the average costs for the different systems.
| Type | Average Costs (Material Only) | Average Cost (Installed) |
| Only DC | 6,000. 10,000 | 6,600. 11,000 |
| Mixed DC and AC | 10,000. 50,000 | 11,000. 55,000 |
| AC With Wind | 20,000. 80,000 | 22,000. 90,000 |
| AC Solar | 30,000. 60,000 | 33,000. 70,000 |
| AC With Back-Up Generator | 40,000. 70,000 | 44,000. 80,000 |
DC Solar System
DC systems average 6,000 and 10,000. Installed, they cost roughly 6,600 to 11,000. Most traditional solar systems are DC or direct current systems. They do not use inverters or batteries but supply power directly to your home. If you use a DC-only solar system and want to go off-grid, you need a tiny home or cabin with very few electricity needs. This system can power lights and a few small appliances. If there is no sun, there is no electricity because there are no batteries to store power, so you do not have electricity at night or in some inclement weather.
Mixed DC and AC System
Expect to pay between 10,000 and 50,000 for a mixed DC and AC system, depending on the system size. These systems installed cost 11,000 to 55,000 on average. A mixed DC and AC (alternating current) system can be used if you have more electrical needs than a DC system can handle but do not want a fully involved system. With this system, you can use fewer panels along with batteries to power more heavy-duty appliances than a stand-alone DC system. This system is designed for low energy usage, but you still have batteries to provide electricity when the sun is not out. This can be a good system for tiny homes or cabins but may not be enough for a larger home.
AC System With Wind
Expect to pay between 20,000 and 80,000 for an AC system with wind, depending on the system size. Installed, these systems cost 22,000 to 90,000. If you do not want a large solar-only system, use an AC solar system with a wind generator. This is good for those living in areas with inconsistent sun but high winds. In this case, you can scale down your solar array and use wind as your backup system. When the AC system is down, the wind system generates electricity. Both components use batteries and inverters, so you can use electricity at night.
AC Solar System
Costs range from 30,000 to 60,000 for a typical AC solar system, depending on the size. For an installed system, expect to pay 33,000 to 70,000. An AC solar system is great if you want to go off-grid with solar energy. You need a full array of panels, several batteries, and an inverter to convert from DC to AC. The system needs to be large enough for your needs, which depends on sunlight and energy usage. For most who use solar energy off-grid, choose this system with at least 7kW. This is a good system to consider if you live in an area that is sunny most of the time.
AC System With a Back-Up Generator
Expect costs for an AC system with a back-up generator to range from 40,000 to 70,000. Installed, this system costs 44,000 to 80,000. This is the most common setup for homes that use solar power off-grid. The AC system is sized to handle the entire load of the home. The backup generator is there in case of a prolonged period of little to no sun. If there has not been enough sun for the system to store for several days, the backup system kicks in to meet the home’s needs. Generators on their own are not usually enough to power a home day in and day out because propane is so expensive. But this can help eliminate potential downtime with your electrical needs as a backup system.
Find the best off-grid solar system installers near me
Off-Grid Solar Cost by Component
Going completely off-grid means adding several components to your system to make sure it functions. Solar panels alone are not enough to handle all your home’s needs and cannot produce electricity when the sun is not out. Therefore, the other components are necessary to help power your home at night or on cloudy/low-sun days. For this reason, the most common system uses panels, batteries, inverters, and charge controllers for each battery. If you choose to use a backup energy source, such as a generator or wind power, you have additional costs. If you use a DC system with another main system as your primary power source, you do not need inverters, batteries, or controllers, only the panels.
| Component | Average Costs (Material Only) |
| Solar Charge Controller | 550. 600/each |
| Alternative Energy Source | 2,000. 20,000 |
| Solar Batteries | 4,000. 14,000/each |
| Solar Inverter | 7,000. 8,000/each |
| Solar Panels | 10,000. 18,000 |
Solar Charge Controller
Solar charge controllers cost around 550 to 600 each. The solar charge controller charges your batteries. The batteries cannot handle the energy on their own, so the charge controller helps convert the energy into a storable form. Each battery needs its own controller to operate. You may have 2 to 8 batteries in your home, depending on the battery type you have and the system size you need. You also need 2 to 8 charge controllers to operate them
Alternative Energy Source
The cost of an alternative energy source ranges from 2,000 to 20,000, depending on the type. Prolonged periods of insufficient sunlight or other issues may cause your system to fail, so you need a backup or alternative energy source. Some people like to install hydro or wind turbines, which cost between 6,000 and 11,000. Others prefer to use a backup generator, which can be powered by propane and costs around 10,000 to 20,000.
Solar Battery System
Batteries cost between 4,000 and 14,000 for each installation. Batteries are what makes it possible for a home to go off-grid. They collect excess energy and store it for later. This stored energy powers your home at night and when the sun’s energy is insufficient. Several battery types can be used as a backup system with on-grid setups, but going off-grid can currently only be reliably achieved with flooded lead-acid batteries (FLA) and lithium-ion batteries.
Flooded lead acid batteries are one of the most common batteries because they have been around for a long time and people are comfortable with them. Of the two, they require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. However, they are considerably less expensive.
Lithium-ion batteries are newer. They cost more to purchase and install but last a lot longer with much less maintenance than FLA batteries. Therefore, they are the most recommended battery type for off-grid systems.
| Type of Solar Battery | Average Costs (Material Only) |
| Lead Acid (FLA) | 4,000. 6,000 |
| Lithium-Ion | 12,000. 14,000 |
Solar Off-Grid Inverter
Costs range from 7,000 to 8,000 for solar inverters but can go higher, depending on usage. The inverter converts solar energy into electricity. The required type, size, and number of inverters depend on the number of panels, number of batteries, and amount of electricity you need. Generally, you need one inverter per battery, but there are many types and configurations available. The energy produced by your solar panels needs to convert from DC to AC to be effective and stored. The inverter does this, making the energy usable, and the more energy you have, the more inverters you need.
Solar Panels
Solar panels cost roughly 10,000 to 18,000 for most systems. Typically, you need a solar panel array or a set of several panels designed to meet your needs. It is common to need up to 20 or more panels for these systems. Solar panels make up the bulk of off-grid system costs. This component harnesses the sun’s energy and starts the production of electricity. The number of panels, cells, and type of cells vary, depending on your location and needs.
Labor Costs to Install an Off-Grid System
Labor costs make up only a small percentage of the total cost to install an off-grid system. The cost to map out the best position for the panels, install the panels and batteries, connect the various components, and get the system up and running comes out to about 10% of the system’s complete cost. For a 50,000 system, the labor portion is usually around 5,000. Most companies roll the labor cost into the system’s cost rather than pricing it separately. For this reason, you are unlikely to get separate material and labor charges when installing a new system.
Total labor costs vary depending on several things. These include the general layout or setup, if your roof requires additional reinforcement to support the panels, the pole type for mounting the panels, and the project’s size. The larger the system, the higher your labor and total costs are. Below are the average labor costs to install some of the most commonly sized systems.
| System Size | Average Labor Costs |
| 3kW | 3,000. 3,500 |
| 5kW | 3,500. 4,000 |
| 7kW | 4,500. 6,500 |
| 10kW | 7,000. 8,000 |
| 20kW | 10,000. 12,000 |
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How Many Solar Panels Are Needed to Run a House Off-Grid?
The number of panels in your system is tied to your home’s power needs. Most homes need roughly 7kW to go off-grid, but smaller homes may need less. Larger homes, homes with less sun, and homes with higher energy needs may require more.
The average solar panel can produce between 250 and 400 watts. There are 1,000 watts in a kW, so you need 18 to 28 panels for the average 7kW home, depending on the wattage and panel type. Other factors can also impact your system size and type, such as location, sunlight, home size, and energy usage. This usage can vary by time of year, so ensure you have enough panels to meet your needs at peak demand.
This solar calculator from SolarReviews can help you determine how many solar panels you will need.
Below is the average number of panels that may be needed for differently sized systems.
| System Size | Number of Panels |
| 3kW | 8. 12 |
| 5kW | 13. 20 |
| 7kW | 18. 28 |
| 10kW | 25. 40 |
| 20kW | 50. 80 |
On-Grid vs Off-Grid
Most people who install solar panel systems are still connected to the grid. These systems offset traditional electricity usage but do not replace it. This means you rely on the traditional electrical system less and have lower energy costs. But you could still draw on the grid to meet your needs if there were a prolonged period of little sun or your electrical needs were higher than average.
With an off-grid solar system, your home’s electricity is completely dependent on the power you produce. When you disconnect your home from the local power grid, you likely need backup power like a generator in case of an emergency. This means the system must be sized to meet your absolute highest demand. If there is little sun for several days or you have a sudden spike in electrical usage, your backup system kicks in to help meet those needs.
Off-grid systems are more expensive because they are larger. However, they can give you more flexibility in where you live because you do not need to be near an on-the-grid town or area.
On-grid systems are less expensive and give you the ability to utilize traditional electricity when and if you need it. This can give you greater peace of mind.
Below are the average costs of the two systems fully installed.
| Type | Average Costs (Installed) |
| On-Grid | 15,000. 21,000 |
| Off-Grid | 45,000. 55,000 |
Maintaining Your Off-Grid Solar System
Off-grid systems are fairly easy to maintain. The only regular maintenance they require is to be kept clean. This is particularly important for the solar panels because debris or snow lowers energy efficiency. You can do this cleaning yourself, and it is recommended to hire someone to clean the entire system thoroughly once every 3 to 4 years.
The major components of the system, such as the batteries, inverters, and controllers, must be replaced periodically. Depending on the components you use, this can be anywhere from 5 to 11 years. For example, FLA batteries need to be replaced closer to every 5 years, while lithium-ion batteries need to be replaced closer to every 11 years.
You should also inspect the system every 3 to 4 years. This can help ensure that everything is working properly and give you a chance to replace worn parts or clean components to keep the system working.
Ideal Candidates for Solar Energy
While you can install solar panels on nearly every home, not all homes are good candidates to go off-grid with solar energy or even to make solar energy the home’s main energy source. You may live in an area with too much shade or not enough sunny days or long enough sunny days to make it worth it.
In some areas, costs can also be much higher. This can make costs prohibitive when compared with the cost of staying connected to the grid. The ideal candidates have good sun exposure and above-average energy needs. In this scenario, you see the most benefits and fewest drawbacks from the installation of solar panels.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Off-Grid Solar Systems
Off-grid solar systems have many benefits, but they are not always right for every home. In some cases, their disadvantages outweigh the positive benefits you can get from their installation.
The biggest advantage of using this system is for homeowners who want to live or build in a rural area. In some very rural spaces, electrical lines are not currently available. By going off-grid, you can still have most of the modern amenities and appliances that you would otherwise have to go without.
Going completely off-grid also means you use considerably less fossil fuels. This can save money and help the environment. Disconnecting from the grid can be a good idea for those who are concerned about climate change and want to do their part.
However, being off-grid has high startup costs. You need to anticipate the absolute highest amount of electricity you may need and purchase a system sized for that peak. even if you only hit that amount once or twice a year. This means you likely need a larger system than you anticipated and a backup system. This is costly and takes up a great deal of space. Most off-grid systems use more panels than can fit on the roof of the home, so you need to install poles or an array on your property.
Being off-grid may mean your home insurance costs can go much higher or your insurance company may declare your home uninsurable. For those who can insure their off-grid homes, the cost is often much higher, with lower benefits.
Off-Grid Internet Solutions
While installing solar panels can help meet your energy needs going off-grid, it does not provide you with an internet connection. And because so much of today’s life and world are connected to the internet, this is now considered an essential need that you must address if you decide to disconnect from the grid. This is particularly true in areas where electrical grids and other utilities are not available.You need to find a way to provide your own solution.
Thankfully, there are several ways to get internet services while you remain off-grid. These methods can range from being best in an emergency to providing you with the same quality high-speed internet you may enjoy currently. Costs vary depending on your location and needs, so research what is available in your area.
Satellite Internet
The average cost of satellite internet ranges from 50 to 150 per month. One option you might consider for off-grid internet is satellite internet. There aren’t many companies offering satellite internet at the moment, but the popularity of this service is rising in certain rural areas. Satellite internet requires you to mount a dish on your home but can provide you with fairly reliable service.
Cell Phone Data
Unlimited cell phone data plans cost between 50 and 120 per month. If you’re living in an area that still gets cell phone coverage, you can simply invest in a cell plan that gives you unlimited data or a sufficient amount of data to be able to carry out your usual online activities. This lets you use your phone as your main internet access point, which is useful for keeping in touch with loved ones. Some plans allow you to use your phone to create a hotspot, allowing you to run computers and other devices on the same network.
Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is available for free in many areas. If you’re looking for a more affordable way to stay online, you can also access the internet via free-to-use public Wi-Fi hotspots in various places like fast-food restaurants, coffee shops, libraries, parks, and so on. Each establishment may have their own rules for usage and for how long you can use it, so check and do your research rather than assuming.
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Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Battery Monitors
Your batteries last between 5 and 11 years on average, depending on the type. You can use a battery monitor to help keep track of how old they are and how much life they have left. A battery monitor keeps track of the battery’s health so that you are not caught unaware. They cost around 100 to 150 on average.
Surge Suppressors
If you live in a lightning-prone area, you need to install a surge suppressor on your system. If a lightning strike occurs, solar systems can get easily overwhelmed and malfunction due to the excess energy. A suppressor grounds the excess energy so that the system does not overload. Suppressor costs start at around 1,000 to 2,000, depending on the system size.
Septic Tank
If you are living off-grid, you need a septic tank. Being off-grid means you are not connected to any municipal systems and are responsible for your own waste. A septic tank requires pumping and maintenance, but it is still not a fully dependent system. The average cost of a new septic tank and leach field is around 4,500 to 9,000.
Well and Electric Pump
To have running water on your off-grid property, you need to drill a well and install an electric pump to bring the water indoors. If you have a ground spring on your property, you can dig a well about 10. 15 feet deep. Otherwise, you need to drill at least 50 feet or more, depending on the depth of water in your area. The cost of drilling a well and installing an electric pump is around 7,000 to 10,000.
Composting Toilets
An alternative to indoor plumbing and a septic system is to use a composting toilet. Composting or compostable toilets are designed to naturally dispose of human waste with significantly less water than regular toilets. The waste gets mixed with a substance like wood shavings or peat moss, and most composting toilets don’t need any water at all. These systems cost between 500 and 1,800, on average.
Build a Greenhouse
Some people who live off grid also grow their own food. If you do, a greenhouse can be beneficial. A greenhouse is essential in many climates for growing different kinds of plants, helping to keep them safe from the elements while still providing the light and warmth they need to thrive. Building a greenhouse can cost between 5,000 and 20,000, depending on various factors.
FAQs
This is different for every situation because location, home size, and energy usage all play a role. Most homes require at least 7kW to go off the grid, but some may need more.
An on-grid home is still connected to your town’s electrical supply. At night or if you have higher-than-average energy usage, you can still purchase electricity from this source. In an off-grid system, you need to produce your own energy, so the system is usually larger and has a backup source like a generator.
You can, but it is common to also have a backup energy source, such as wind or a backup generator in case you have higher-than-anticipated energy usage or a prolonged period of less sun.
The biggest disadvantage is the cost, particularly if you go off-grid. The cost of the system can be as high as 100,000 for some homes. The second disadvantage is the need for a backup system. If the sun is not strong for several days or you have a sudden spike in energy usage, a solar system alone may not do the job.
This depends on the amount of sun, your location, and solar panel type, but expect between 12 and 28kW per day of AC power.
Yes it is possible to live off the grid legally, and many of the aspects of off-grid living are completely legal. However, it’s important to do your research as laws can vary from state to state and certain zoning restrictions and property regulations can complicate the situation. While it may be legal, you may find that your home is not insurable off grid.
Yes, in most cases, you’ll need to get a permit to build any kind of dwelling or structure, even on your own land and even if you’re living off-grid. Your structures must also meet building codes. You may also need permits for other parts of your off-grid home, like the septic tank. Speak to your local municipality about what permits you may need for your off-grid home.
The information provided by our cost guides comes from a great variety of sources. For more information, read our Methodology and sources.