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!
Generator Sizing Guide For Off-Grid Solar Systems
Most off-grid solar systems are paired with a generator. Without utility power as a fallback, off-grid setups need a backup plan in case their solar system can’t produce enough to meet the property’s needs.
Gas generators are used in off-grid systems as a backup charging source to recharge the battery bank when solar can’t keep up with demand. They are also used for backup power in case equipment fails and the inverter system needs to be bypassed.
Here’s our advice on how to pick a generator for your off-grid solar system.
Generator Sizing
As a general rule, the generator should be around 2 times the size of the inverter’s continuous output. For example, a 4,000-watt inverter should be paired with an 8,000-watt generator.
This is because the generator needs to charge batteries while still powering the loads (appliances using energy). If the loads total 4,000 watts, and the charger is 60 amps at 48 volts, that totals around 7kW of continuous power:
60a x 48v = 2,880 watts 4,000 watts = 6,880 watts
8kW would make sense as a minimum generator size to power the loads and have enough power to charge the battery bank as well.
It’s a good idea to round up slightly to give some headroom for the generator, especially at higher elevations where your generator is going to lose some of its power. Engines can lose around 3% of their power for every 1,000’ increase in altitude. Make sure you account for this if your system will be installed at a high elevation.
Can I Use a Larger Generator?
A larger generator can be beneficial if you have large loads like an air conditioner or a welder that will only be used when the generator is running.
We frequently sell 12kW and 14kW Kohler generators with our off-grid systems using a 4000w inverter. A larger generator is going to burn more fuel, but otherwise will work fine.
Can I Use a Smaller Generator?
Smaller generators will still work, but it typically requires adjusting the settings to limit the battery charger’s output. Most battery chargers allow you to adjust the AC input amperage and charge rate.
You will need to match the generator’s voltage with the inverter. For example, 120Vac generators should be paired with 120Vac inverter/chargers, while 120/240Vac generators need an inverter that outputs 120/240Vac.
In the rare case that you are using a three-phase generator or inverter, the same rules apply: the generator’s voltage would need to match the inverter.
There is one exception we are aware of. Magnum PAE inverters are 120/240Vac but can handle a 120Vac input, provided you turn down the charge rate to 50% or lower, and adjust the AC input amps to match the size of the generator. This is useful if you need an inverter that can output 120/240Vac but are working with a smaller generator.
Generator Fuel Type (Natural Gas, Propane, Diesel)
Most standby home generators work on natural gas, propane or diesel. Diesel generators tend to be much more fuel efficient and longer lasting, but the initial cost can be 2-3 times more than a natural gas or propane alternative.
The Kohler 12kW 14kW generators we sell can work with either natural gas or propane. Off-grid customers typically use propane instead of natural gas, but these models can be configured to work with either fuel type.
Other Considerations
Warranty
Most generators don’t have a warranty that covers off-grid or prime power applications. Check the generator warranty closely to be sure it can be used off the grid.
Kohler’s 12RES and 14RESA generators are both warrantied for 18 months / 1000 hours of off-grid use (whichever comes first).
If you need more power, dual 14RESA generators can be combined in parallel with the Kohler Powersync module for 28 kW of output.
2-wire start
Off-grid generators paired with solar power systems need 2-wire start capability to allow the automatic generator start (AGS) function to work. When your batteries drop below a certain voltage, the AGS kicks in to turn on the generator and recharge your battery bank.
Note that 2-wire start is different than electric start. Some generators will have a button for electric start/stop, but they can’t be controlled by a 2-wire signal, which means the inverter can’t communicate with the generator to trigger the AGS mechanism.
The Kohler 12RES and 14RESA are both capable of two-wire start.
1800 RPM vs. 3600 RPM
Most generators operate at one of two engine speeds: 1800 or 3600 RPM.
The difference is based on engine design and the alternator being used. 1800 RPM generators are generally considered superior because they are more fuel-efficient, but they cost quite a bit more up front. 3600 RPM generators tend to be cheaper but less efficient.
The Kohler 12kW and 14kW generators we sell are 3600 RPM. They are very durable, reliable and more cost-effective for typical off-grid applications. Kohler doesn’t make any 1800 RPM generators smaller than 24kW, although there may be options from other manufacturers. Be sure to do your research and read reviews to learn about the company and make sure you are getting a quality product.
Conclusion
When searching for a generator to support your off-grid solar system, keep a few things in mind:
- Generator output should be 2x your inverter’s output
- Match generator voltage to inverter voltage
- Generator must be warrantied for off-grid use
- 2-wire start is mandatory to work automatically with solar system
- 3600 RPM generators are more cost-effective, while 1800 RPM generators cost more up front but last longer and are more efficient
For more help moving off the grid, check out our Solar Battery Guide, which explains how to size and select a battery bank to adequately support your energy needs off the grid.
‘POWER TOWER’. The Ultimate Off Grid System 6000W / Up to 60kWh
The Power Tower by Hybrid Power Solutions, is the reliable, fuel-free power solution for your off-grid location. A completely integrated system combining solar, DC to AC conversion, battery charging, grid bypass and automatic generator start.
Power Tower Base
As a completely integrated system combining solar, DC to AC conversion, battery charging, grid bypass and automatic generator start, the Power Tower is a plug and play system like never before. Designed with Off Grid living in mind, the Power Tower offers 6000W continuous power and up to 18,000W of peak power. Coupled with 3500W of Solar MPPT charging capability, the Power Tower ensures you will never left out in the dark.
The Power Tower houses all electronics in one, elegant locking glass cabinet. Since all off.grid components are housed in one single system, getting up and running is a simple as plugging in the batteries and your solar panels then wiring the output into your breaker panel. With an integrated Automatic Generator Start (AGS), even in the worse case scenarios, a backup generator can automatically be started when the batteries hit a critical level.
Just because the Power Tower is packed with features does not mean it isn’t reliable. With battery chemistries commonly used mining and industrial applications, the system is robust and safe. A low frequency transformer allows for very high surge capability and more reliable operation.
- Continuous Power Output: 6000W
- Peak Power Output: 18,000W
- Output Voltage: 240VAC
- Sine Wave: Pure Sine
- AC Input: 240VAC
- Battery Charging from Grid/Generator: Selectable up to 50A
- Solar Array Power: 3500W Max
- Maximum Solar Input Amperage: 2 x 30A
- Maximum Solar Working Voltage: 150VDC
- Weight: 75kg (160lbs)
- Dimensions: 88 x 56 x 24.5 cm (34.6 x 22 x 9.64”)
- Automatic Generator Start Voltage: 51VDC
- Certifications (inverter): cETLus (UL 1741) CSA C22.2#107.1
- All other Components: CSA or UL Certified
- Automatic Generator Start
- MPPT Solar Charger
- 5 battery ports (expandable up to 15)
- LCD Display
- Grid/Generator Bypass
- Locked Cabinet
- Common Twist Lock input for generator or grid tie allows for quick easy install and high powered 240V capability
- Expandable battery system allows for up to 15 Power Tower batteries in parallel
DOCUMENTATION
Power Tower Batteries
A key feature of the Power Tower is the expandable battery system. Every base kit comes with one 3.98kWh lithium battery but can be expanded to up to 15 allowing for almost 60kWh of usable energy. Not only are these batteries expandable but are plug and play right into the Power Tower base. Featuring locking casters, folding handles and mounting tabs, the batteries can be placed wherever best. They feature a built-in screen that displays battery voltage, power consumption, amperage and time left until fully charged or fully discharged.
The use of LiFePO4 batteries ensures a safe and long-lasting energy storage system that weighs 3 times less and takes up 3 times less space than lead acid batteries. These batteries also protect themselves from over discharge and over charge scenarios and feature a lifespan over 3000 cycles.
Not only do the Power Tower batteries pair perfectly with the Power Tower, but they can also be used with any pre-existing 48VDC system. This battery chemistry is used across all our products and has a proven track record in some of the harshest environments including mining and transit.
- Voltage: 51.2VDC
- Minimum Voltage: 40VDC
- Maximum Voltage: 58.4VDC
- Amp Hours: 78Ah
- Usable Energy: 3.98 kWh
- Suggested Charge Current: 20A
- Maximum Charge Current: 100A
- Maximum Continuous Discharge Current: 100A
- Peak Discharge Current (3 sec): 200A
- Cycles: 3500 cycles at 0.5C (100%DOD 25°C 80% remaining)
- Cycles: 10,000 cycles (@80%DOD per cycle 80% remaining @0.2C)
- Total Weight: 60kg (132 lbs)
- Dimensions: 460 x 360 x 270 mm (18 x 14 x 10.6”)
- Charge Temperature: 0~60℃
- Discharge Temperature:.20~45℃
- Plug and Play up to 15 batteries together
- Full 0-100% DOD (depth of discharge)
- Over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current protection
- 300A CSA rated fuse
- LCD Display
- Locking Casters for easy movement
- Bolt down tabs for wall mounting or rack mount
SCALABLE
A unique feature of the Power Tower is the expandable battery system. Every base kit comes with one 3.98 kWh lithium battery but can be expanded to up to 15 allowing for almost 60 kWh of usable energy. Unlike traditional lead acid systems, venting is not required, so choose where the system fits best, plug in, and you have off-grid power.
SOLAR WIND
Additional Solar and/or Wind charging can be added and plugged directly into the battery bank, meaning there is no limit when it comes to power availability. You could install 10kWh of Solar and 2kWh of Wind for example, increasing your overall power to 12kWh. With the Power Tower, getting off-grid has never been easier.
AUTOMATIC GENERATOR START
With an integrated Automatic Generator Start (AGS), even in the worst case scenarios, a backup generator can automatically be started when the batteries hit a critical level. The common twist lock input for generator or grid tie is conveniently installed directly on the Power Tower unit. This allows for quick easy installation and high powered 120V or 240V capability.
NEVER GET CAUGHT IN THE DARK
With 6000w of power output, and up to 60kWh of usable energy, Power Tower ensures you are never let out in the dark. It’s easily expandable system, including optional generator, grid, solar and wind inputs means the sky is the limit when it comes to continuous power availability.
SAFEST BATTERY CHEMISTRY
All of our products use LiFePO4, the safest lithium-ion battery chemistry available on the market. Numerous features to keep yourself and your cabin safe. Over-voltage, under-voltage, over current protection with a 300A CSA rated fuse. Lithium Ion has a proven track record in some of the harshest environments including mining and transit. The fume-free batteries mean you can place the system anywhere with no dangerous fumes like traditional lead-acid.
NO MAINTENANCE
Our all-in-one systems require little to no maintenance, and offer a 2 year warranty if anything ever goes wrong. With an impressive lifespan of 10-15 years, you have a great off-grid solution that makes sense for your home or cottage.
KEY FEATURES
Automatic generator start:The common twist lock input for generator or grid tie allows for quick easy install and high powered 240V capability
Ultimate off-grid set up:MPPT solar charger removes reliance on the grid
Expandable:Plug and play battery system allows for up to 15 Power Tower batteries allowing for almost 60 kWh of usable energy. It features 5 battery ports (expandable up to 15)
Easy to read and use:LCD Display on Power Tower and Batteries meaning you always know how much power you have to play with
Power Tower Batteries:Full 0-100% DOD (depth of discharge)
Safety Features:Numerous features to keep yourself and your cabin safe. Over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current protection with a 300A CSA rated fuse. Lithium Ion has a proven track record in some of the harshest environments including mining and transit. The fume-free batteries mean you can place the system anywhere with no dangerous fumes like traditional lead-acid
Easy to move with secure locking:Power Tower Batteries feature locking casters for easy movement and bolt down tabs for wall or rack installation. The Power Tower Base is also lockable
Quick and easy installation:Grid/Generator bypass means this unit fits most off-grid locations
Solar Powered Home Generators 6000W 48V
Output Power: 6000W Input DC Voltage: 48V Output AC Voltage: 110V/120V/220V/230V/240V Output DC Voltage: 45V USB; 412V with 3W LED Bulbs and Wires Frequency: 50Hz/60Hz Wave Form: Pure Sine Wave Battery Capacity: 4200Ah Solar Controller: MPPT Max PV 3360W or PWM 60A AC Charger: 0-30A
Why do I recommend you to use this solar powered generator?
When your home is out of power, or remote mountainous islands cannot obtain utility power, you can generate electricity with the help of a steady stream of solar energy. You can configure a solar powered generator to convert the DC power in the solar energy or the battery into AC power for AC appliances use. Xindun solar powered generator has a built-in solar controller and battery, and users only need to purchase additional solar panels to enjoy the convenience brought by the solar power system. This home solar powered generator also has 2 pcs universal AC output socket, 4pcs USB interface for charging mobile phones, and 4pcs 5V DC interface for powering the light bulb, which is very simple to use. Solar powered generator has a huge market opportunity, and solar power distributors are welcome to come to consult and cooperate.
⌈Solar Powered Generator Feature⌋
1 Combine inverter/solar controller/4200AH battery all in one. 2 Multiple output: 2AC output socket, 4DC 12V, 2USB. 3 Working mode AC prior/ECO mode/Solar prior selectable. 4 AC charging current 0-10A selectable. 5 Continuous stable pure sine wave output with inbuilt AVR stabilizer. 6 3 times peak power, excellent loading capability. 7 LVD/HVD/Charging voltage adjutable, suitable for kinds of battery 8 Adding fault code to monitor real-time work situations. 9 Digital LCD and LED for visualization of operation status of the equipment. 10 Inbuilt automatic AC charger and AC switcher, stwitch time ≤ 4ms.
⌈Solar Powered Generator How to Use⌋
⌈Solar Powered Generator Specification⌋
⌈Why Choose Xindunpower⌋
⌈ About Xindunpower – Solar Powered Generator Manufacturer ⌋
⌈Solar Powered Generator Factory Scene ⌋
⌈Our Certificate ⌋
⌈Global Solar Power Expo ⌋
If you are interested in this solar powered generator, please feel free to contact Xindun. Xindun china factory solar generators can be exported to the world.