How Many Solar Panels Do I Need for a 5kW System?
Solar panel technology is continuously improving with modern systems becoming more efficient at storing the sun’s energy. Solar panels have helped people all over the world reduce their carbon footprints and curb the effects of climate change.
These positive effects on the environment have resulted in more powerful solar systems being developed with larger energy storage capacities and greater efficiencies. Many modern solar heat systems are now equipped with batteries that make it possible to use stored energy during sunless days.
Powering your household with the sun’s energy has a number of advantages, such as being unaffected by rising electricity rates, benefitting from government incentives and solar tax rebates, and increasing the price of your home.
5kW solar systems are a general size and starting point for first-time solar panel buyers. This system is enough to offset an average suburban household. However, what is the correct number of solar panels needed for a 5kW solar system to function at full efficiency?
The following article discusses this question as well as things that might affect the number of panels needed.
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?
The number of solar panels needed for a 5kW solar system is dependent on two factors – the type of solar panel and the power of the solar panel in watts.
There are two types of solar panels which are polycrystalline and monocrystalline.
Other factors include the size of your property. If you stay in a small home, then a cabin solar system might be more beneficial than a full-out system.
Monocrystalline Panels
If you have limited space on your roof then monocrystalline panels are for you, and they ‘e significantly more powerful with higher efficiency ratings.
Monocrystalline panels have an average wattage output of between 310 and 400 watts. This is one of the best solar systems for air conditions due to its high-power output.
Polycrystalline Panels
If space isn’t your main concern and you would rather save a few extra bucks, the more affordable polycrystalline panels are suited for you.
Polycrystalline panels are less efficient than their monocrystalline counterparts, which means you’d require more panels for the same energy output when compared to an array of monocrystalline panels.
For polycrystalline panels, you’re looking at a typical wattage output between 250 and 300 watts.
How Many Monocrystalline Panels Do I Need for a 5kW System?
5kW systems are a good starting point for homeowners who are looking to break into the solar market and power their homes with solar energy. They’re considered small solar power systems but have enough energy to meet your energy needs.
Typical households use about 867kWh per month, which means that a 5kW system generally covers their electrical usage.
If you decided on the more powerful monocrystalline solar panel system with an output of 400 watts, there are a few calculations you need to do to find the number of panels needed.
Since we have a 5kW system, which equates to 5,000 watts, we take 5000 and divide it by 400 watts for each solar panel. This gives us a total of 12.5 panels, which we would round up to 13 panels.
Therefore, to run a 5kW solar panel system you need 13 solar panels with a wattage of 400 watts each. You can easily adjust this equation to make it accurate to your equipment and needs
What About the Polycrystalline Option?
If you want to go for the less powerful crystalline option because you have significantly more space on your roof available or have a tight budget, then you need a lot more panels.
We can use the same scenario where you need a 5kW system installed to supply your household with enough energy for the month.
Again, we take the average power of your solar system and divide it by the average output of one polycrystalline panel. Let’s say that one solar panel has an output of 300 watts.
You simply take the 5,000 watts and divide it by the 300 watts of a single panel. This equates to 16.6, which we can round out to 17 solar panels. As you can see, you need a lot more panels for this system compared to a monocrystalline system or more powerful solar panels.
Which Option Is Better for Me?
At the end of the day, it depends on space and what you’re willing to spend. As mentioned above, polycrystalline solar panels are a little less efficient than monocrystalline ones, but they’re more affordable.
Additionally, you need a lot more roof space to have polycrystalline panels installed. If space isn’t an issue, then your best bet is to dish out a few extra dollars and spend it on a monocrystalline system.
These days, some panels are much more powerful than monocrystalline ones, with a wattage close to 700. Using the previous calculations and metrics, you would only require 7 panels for your 5kW system.
How Much Space Do I Need?
Sizing solar systems can be a bit confusing with all the calculations involved, but this simplified guide will make it much easier for you.
Of course, before we decide on what panel we want to have installed, we need to have an idea of how much space is available on your roof. Typically, you also want to leave 25% of your roof free of panels for safety reasons.
The average solar system size is 17 square feet, so if you decide on the monocrystalline panels for your 5kW system then you are going to need approximately 221 square feet plus the 25% free space. This equates to a final number of 281 square feet, which is the overall space you will need.
You need a lot more space for polycrystalline panels because of their lower efficiency. Let’s take the 17 panels we calculated previously and multiply them by 17 square feet.
This gives us a value of 289 square feet. Once we add the 25% it comes to 361 square feet we need for this system.
Considerations
One thing that you should always consider is that you won’t have direct sunlight throughout the year. Some days your panels have full exposure to the sun’s rays, while other days clouds or snowfall may hinder efficiency.
With this in mind, you should always try to install more panels than needed that are still in compliance with the availability of space you have on your roof.
Always aim to install an extra panel or two to account for weather variability or solar panel damage. Over time, your panels degrade, but with an extra panel installed you can ultimately slow the degradation process.
Additionally, make sure you monitor the amount of sun your region gets daily. This will help you establish which kind of panel you need to meet your electricity requirements.
If you have any further concerns are questions in general, then reach out to Shop Solar Kits for assistance. We have exceptional customer service and even an option that allows you to select which solar system is best for your household. We can make everything incredibly simple in your search for the best solar options.
Conclusion
Calculating solar energy-related equations can be quite a daunting task at first, but it doesn’t have to be. With this simplified guide, you can consider yourself a master at solar panel calculations in determining how many panels are needed for a 5kW system.
Solar panels are an incredible investment, especially now that we are living in a world with continuously rising utility bills. Not only will you be saving a buck through incentives, but you will also be lending mother nature a helping hand in our fight against climate change.
The time is now, so let’s go solar and become a more sustainable planet.
Did You Find Our Blog Helpful? Then Consider Checking:
- How Much Power Does a 5kw Solar System Produce
- How Much Power Does a 7kw Solar System Produce Per Day
- How Much Electricity Does a 4kw Solar System Produce
- How Much Energy Does a 6kw Solar System Produce
- How Much Power Does a 3kw Solar System Produce
- How Much Does an 8kw Solar System Produce
- Solar Power System
- Solar PV System
- Ground Mount Solar System
- Off Grid Solar System
- Cost of Off Grid Solar System
- Off Grid Solar System Components
- Solar Battery Storage System Cost
- Add Battery to Solar System
- Should I Get a Battery with My Solar System
kwh 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. |
An Overview of a 5kW Solar System: Prices, Types, Specifications,
A 5kW solar system is a self-sustainable system that can meet power requirements for homes, shops, or small offices. It can operate multiple homes and kitchen appliances, up to a certain wattage.
A 5kW solar system installed on your rooftop works in a way similar to solar systems of other capacities. A 5kv solar system converts solar energy into usable electric power that can run your electric appliances.
The 5kW solar inverters are there in these systems for the DC to AC power conversion. The resultant AC power is used to operate domestic and commercial appliances.
If you want to learn more about the 5 kilowatt solar panel price and other aspects, let us dive in deeper!
Important statistics and working of a 5 kW solar system for home
Before the pricing and anything else, it is significant to look at some important statistics of the 5kW solar power system. You must have the basic know-how of the working of such systems.
- – The solar panels installed for these systems are composed of photovoltaic cells.
- – During the daytime, the sunlight gets trapped in the PV cells of the solar panels.
- – The solar cells create an electric field within them, which causes the electrons to move.
- – Then, this movement of electrons produces the flow of electric current.
Notably, under ideal conditions, a 5kW solar-powered system generates roughly:
- – 20 units of electricity every day,
- – 600 units of electricity every month,
- – and 7200 units a year.
Price List of a 5kW Solar Panel in India
You must be desiring to know the 5 kW solar system price in India. The approximate price range of a 5kW solar panel in India is ₹2,25,000 to ₹3,50,000.
Please note that this 5 kv solar system price range is the entire system installation cost. If you want to apply for a subsidy, certain criteria have to be met (to be discussed a little later in this guide).
Types of a 5kW Solar System
There are three major types of 5kva solar systems, namely – on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems.
5 kW on grid solar system
The 5 kW on grid solar system is also called the grid-connected or grid-tied solar system as it is connected to the utility grid.
A 5kv on grid solar system price is the most economical in terms of power saving as compared to the other types. The 5kW solar inverter installed in this solar system transforms the DC power produced by the solar panels into AC power.
Did you know that the major chunk of an entire solar system is the 5kW inverter price?
5kW Off Grid Solar System
The 5kW off grid solar system is a self-dependent battery-based solar system as it does not need a power grid to function.
This is an independent solar system that includes a 5kW solar panel set, a battery, and a 5kW solar inverter. It is a distinct type of solar system as it has a power backup.
Hybrid 5kW Solar System
5kW Hybrid solar systems are a fusion of on-grid and off-grid specialties. The solar array framework is connected to the local grid like the on-grid systems. Besides, the hybrid systems also embrace solar panels, 5kW solar inverters, and a battery bank.
Hence, it uses the electricity grid of the city and also has in-built batteries altogether to ensure that the house has the needful power supply during power outages.
Specifications of rooftop on-grid 5kW solar panel types that you should know
You must be interested in knowing the specifications of a 5kW solar array and its influence on its pricing. Let us discuss this.
There are some standard specifications set by the government to which all rooftop solar systems in India must abide. Here are the key specifications listed.
| Solar Panels | Complying with MNRE standards and registered in ALMM |
| Grid Connected Inverter | Complying with MNRE/BIS Standard regulations |
| Module Mounting Structure | Galvanised according to the applicable IS |
| Solar DC and AC Cables | Total 50 metres in length and should be as per MNRE standards |
| Performance Testing | At least 75% |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
Notably, the 5 kv solar system price varies with the specifications of the system. The price variation depends on two major factors – the type of solar cells and the brand of solar panels.
- – Type of Solar Cells: If you are opting to buy a monocrystalline 5kv solar panel, it will have a higher efficiency than the polycrystalline panels. Hence, it is more expensive than the Polycrystalline 5kv solar panel price since poly panels are less efficient.
- – Brands: Varied brands offer varied qualities of panels. Remarkably, the slightly expensive panels from notable manufacturers have low-temperature coefficients for better performance over time.
Specifications Pricing of 5kW Solar Conversion Kit
By using a solar conversion kit, you can convert a standard inverter into a solar inverter. It is a small solar device that is also known as a solar charge controller.
A 5kW solar conversion kit includes solar panels, Solar Management Unit (SMU), and other solar accessories. Here are its key specifications listed:
- – Type of Solar Panels: Mono/Poly
- – Technology: MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)
- – Warranty: 25 Years
- – Other Accessories: Earthing Kit, Fasteners, Cable Tie, Crimping Tool, Lighting Arrestor, mounting structures, conduit trays
Specifications of a 5kW 12V Solar System and a 5KW 24V Solar System
Not all solar systems are the same, which is why the price range also differs. 5KW 12V and 5KW 24 systems are either off-grid or hybrid.
Here are some major specifications:
- – Solar System Capacity: 5kW
- – Type: off-grid or hybrid
- – Inverter type: off-grid solar inverter for an off-grid system and hybrid solar inverter for a hybrid system
- – Type of Solar Panel: Mono/Poly
- – Technology: MPPT
5Kv Solar Panel Price in India With Subsidy
Do you know about solar subsidies offered by the Government of India? Do not worry if you don’t know! We are here to guide you.
Getting solar panels installed at homes is not an issue, all thanks to Government subsidies. Here’s a quick list of the conditions mandatory to avail of a subsidy.
- – The solar panels should be DCR (Made in India) and ALMM-approved.
- – The system should be an on-grid rooftop solar system.
- – Only homeowners and housing societies are eligible for a subsidy. Commercial and industrial setups aren’t provided a subsidy.
That being said, although the range of the solar panel 5kW price in India is ₹2,25,000 – ₹3,50,000, the subsidies are calculated against L1 rates (discovered rates).
The empanelled solar vendors are invited to bid on the solar tender to earn allocation rights from the state government. The lowest bid becomes the L1 price, which is different for all states.
Here is a table depicting the L1 rates for a 5KW solar system in different states in 2022 and the subsidies offered against them.
| State | L1 solar panel 5kW price | Subsidy offered on 5 kW system against L1 rates |
| Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal) | ₹38,800 | ₹62,080 |
| Gujarat | ₹43,500 | ₹69,600 |
| UP | ₹33,000 | ₹52,800 |
| Rajasthan | ₹43,500 | ₹69,600 |
| Delhi | ₹37,500 | ₹60,000 |
| Haryana | ₹38,090 | ₹60,944 |
| Chattisgarh | ₹40,500 | ₹64,800 |
| Maharashtra | ₹39,600 | ₹63,360 |
Benefits of 5kW Solar System
Let us now discuss the benefits of installing a 5kW Solar System.
Solar power is an environment-friendly energy source
Solar energy is a renewable and clean energy source. It does not emit greenhouse gases that conventional energy sources like coal, natural gas, etc do. It is green energy that equates to the goodness of planting several trees.
A 5KW solar system specifically equals the goodness of planting 75 trees.
Long-term financial gains
A 5kW solar-powered system slashes your monthly electricity bills. over, when considered over the long term, the savings are in tens of lakhs of rupees.
Lesser to no dependency on the grid
Solar energy is a highly reliable energy source. When you install an on-grid 5kv solar system for your home, it can minimise or even eliminate your dependency on the power grid. It enables your home to produce its own electricity.
Who Should Buy 5kW Solar Panels?
The 5 kW solar system is the most preferred choice for people who consume about 600-620 units of electricity/month.
For those people planning to buy 5kW Solar Panels, we must recommend calling a solar engineer to your home to gain insights on product, installation, and investment vs. return. Solarsquare offers engineer visits across the country that are trusted by thousands of homeowners.
Which Appliances a 5kW Solar Panel Can Run?
A 5kva solar system is the most favoured solar-powered system that is very popular. A 5kW solar system generates approximately 20 units of electricity each day. It is a suitable choice for 2BHK and 3BHK homes or even large bungalows, villas, and duplex homes.
Other than residential infrastructures, the 5kW is capacious enough to power a two to three-story office, school, restaurant, or any commercial building.
A 5 kW solar power plant cost becomes more bearable after availing of the subsidies (for homeowners and housing societies only).
This solar system can competently run a big household in India. It can run Air conditioners, water pumps, and other essential home appliances, including fans lights, microwaves, coolers, dishwashers, washing machines, geysers, computers, and whatnot.
Conclusion
Now, you know considerable details about the 5kW solar system and 5kW solar panel cost along with the subsidies offered by the government.
You are now aware of its applications, the power output statistics, and the monetary savings that can be gained in the long run.
So, isn’t it an ideal time to switch to solar? We hope you make the right decision!
FAQs
What is the approximate price range for a 5kW solar system?
In India, the approximate 5kva solar system price is INR 2,25,000 to INR 3,50,000.
What is the energy output of a 5kW solar panel in units?
Under standard conditions, a 5 kW solar system can produce 20 units of electricity every day.
So, it is the perfect option for households that need around 600-620 units of electricity per month.
What are the appliances which a 5kW solar system can operate?
A 5kW solar system can operate all appliances in a household setting. These appliances include fans, lights, refrigerators, TV, AC, washing machine, geysers, dishwashers, etc.
How much does a 6kW solar power system cost and how much electricity does it produce?
As the cost of solar continues to decline, 6 kilowatt (kW) solar PV systems are becoming a more popular option for homeowners.
In many states, a 6kW PV system will be enough to power an entire house, but it depends on your location and energy needs. We will walk you through the cost, size, and practicality of a 6kW system before you decide to buy.
See how many solar panels you need to eliminate your electricity bill
How much does an average 6kW solar system cost?
With the average cost of solar about 3.00 per watt as of August 2022, a 6kW solar system in the US will cost about 18,000. With the 30% federal tax credit, the solar system price drops down to about 12,000.
Depending on where you live, you can benefit from additional state or utility-based solar rebates and incentives, such as net metering, that may reduce the price even more.
The system design and parts can also change the price, like inverters and ground mount racking, among other things.
All of the above factors, in addition to how much sun an area gets and electricity rates, play into the different costs of installing solar. In the chart below, we break down what you can expect to pay around the country.
| California | 16,080 | 11,256 |
| Florida | 15,480 | 10,836 |
| Texas | 15,600 | 10,920 |
| North Carolina | 14,940 | 10,458 |
| Arizona | 15,840 | 11,088 |
| New Jersey | 16,620 | 11,634 |
| Massachusetts | 17,220 | 12,054 |
| Georgia | 13,980 | 9,786 |
| New York | 17,160 | 12,012 |
Can you finance a 6kW system?
Just because 6kW systems are becoming cheaper, that doesn’t mean that everyone can pay cash upfront to own one. Luckily, there are many financing options available.
If you qualify, a zero-down solar loan is a great way to finance your solar system.
In some states, you can opt for solar leases or solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) from solar companies. Solar loans and solar leases allow you to pay the full cost over time while still benefiting from solar savings. PPAs are a bit different. the solar company owns the solar panels on your roof, and you pay them a monthly payment for the solar energy the system produces.
Solar leases and solar PPAs have lower long-term utility bill savings than purchasing a system outright. Though financing solar panels will still deliver long-term electric bill savings, paying in full upfront is the best choice.
How many solar panels are in a 6kW solar power system?
A 6kW energy system has 19 solar panels.
Depending on the wattage of the solar panels you choose to go with, the actual number of solar panels for your 6kW system will vary. Typically, the wattage of solar panels ranges from a low of 350 watts to 400 watts.
For example, if you install 350-watt solar panels, you’ll need about 17 panels to make a 6kW system. But if you use more powerful 400-watt panels, you’ll only need 15 panels to reach a 6kW system size.
How much roof space do you need for a 6kW solar system?
A 6kW solar panel system will require about 265 square feet of space on your rooftop.
It’s important to note that the actual square footage required will depend on the wattage and the dimensions of the panels you install.
High-efficiency solar panels will create more energy, increasing actual power output, in a smaller area. That means if you do not have 265 square feet. higher efficiency panels can help you reach a 6kW solar array.
How much power does a 6kW system produce?
A 6kW system will produce about 400 to 900 kWh of electricity a month, meaning the amount of energy produced ranges between 4,800 to 10,800 kWh per year.
Because the average U.S. home’s monthly electricity usage is 886 kWh, a 6kW system might be too small for the amount of power consumption for many homes.
The amount of sunlight your home state gets also determines the number of solar panels you will need. Say if you live in sunny Arizona, a 6kW system will get you much farther than if you lived in rainy Washington.
How much can I save with a 6kW solar system?
Because every state has different rates for electricity, your savings will vary. If you live in a state with high electricity costs, your solar system will save you more money. Your power bill savings will also be affected by the amount of energy your solar system produces.
For example, if a 6kW solar system generates 900 kWh a month in California, it will save you about 157 a month. A system installed in Texas (where electricity is very cheap) that produces 900 kWh would save a homeowner 99 a month. The bottom line is. no matter where you live, solar will save you money on electricity.
The following table shows estimates of how much a 6kW system can save in different states:
| California | 835. 1,878 |
| Florida | 527. 1,186 |
| Texas | 528. 1,187 |
| North Carolina | 530. 1,191 |
| Arizona | 583. 1,312 |
| New Jersey | 755. 1,698 |
| Massachusetts | 912. 2,052 |
| Georgia | 552. 1,242 |
| New York | 844. 1,899 |
Another factor that varies by state and is based on electricity costs and cost to install is the payback period. The payback period for your solar panels is the time it takes to pay the system off and get completely free electricity.
The payback period could be even lower if you live in an area with additional solar rebates like solar renewable energy credits (SRECs). Find out what your estimated payback period is for a 6kW system in your state.
How do I find the right installer for a 6kW solar system?
If you are interested in off-grid solar panel options or want to install solar panels yourself, it is possible to buy a DIY solar kit to install a 6kW system. A DIY kit costs about 10,000, making them slightly cheaper than the installed price you will get with a solar company.
Although it is technically cheaper to buy a DIY kit, many times you will need the help of a solar installer or a licensed electrician. After solar installation, electricians will ensure that the system will pass inspections.
All of that extra work can cost more than having a licensed solar installer install your panels. Also, when you work with licensed professionals, you can benefit from a 25-year warranty on your panels, a perk you do not get with DIY.
To really be sure if a 6kW system is right for you, it makes sense to work with trusted solar installers to determine the number of solar panels your home needs. Find out what local incentives you can qualify for and if a 6kW system is right for your home’s energy needs!