What is Solar Panel Size Calculator?
Solar Panel Size Calculator helps you estimate a solar array's size from daily energy demand and sunlight assumptions.
The main result is solar array capacity. The formula, example and assumptions below explain how to interpret it.
How to use Solar Panel Size Calculator
Use the example to get familiar with the form, then enter your own figures. Any rates in the example are illustrative. Check the field labels and units before calculating.
- Gather daily electricity requirement (kWh), daily peak sun hours (hours) and system performance ratio (%). Use values from the same situation or reporting period.
- Replace the example daily electricity requirement with your own value, then complete the other fields. Check the displayed units.
- Select Calculate and read solar array capacity. Change one input and calculate again to compare a second scenario. Reset restores the original example.
- Enter daily electricity requirement in kWh, at least 0. Decimals are accepted.
- Enter daily peak sun hours in hours, at least 0.000001 and at most 24. Decimals are accepted.
- Enter system performance ratio in %, at least 0 and at most 100. Decimals are accepted.
Solar Panel Size Calculator: a worked example
With the inputs below, the result is 5 kW (solar array capacity). Follow the example, then replace these illustrative values with your own.
| Input or output | Example value |
|---|---|
| Daily electricity requirement (kWh) | 20 kWh |
| Daily peak sun hours (hours) | 5 hours |
| System performance ratio (%) | 80 % |
| Solar array capacity | 5 kW |
Understanding the Solar Panel Size result
The main output is solar array capacity, expressed in kW. It applies to the inputs and operation you selected.
Displayed results use a readable number of decimal places. When checking a result by hand, keep extra precision until the last step. To compare scenarios, change one input at a time and keep the others fixed.
Solar Panel Size Calculator: assumptions and common mistakes
A useful estimate starts with the right inputs. Check the following assumptions and limits before applying the result to your situation.
- DC, single-phase and three-phase calculations use different relationships. Equipment selection also depends on installation conditions and applicable standards.
For wider guidance, visit Bureau of Indian Standards. The formula and scope of this specific tool are stated on this page.
