Solar Power Formula:
From: | To: |
Definition: This calculator estimates the solar panel power needed based on your energy requirements, available sunlight hours, and system performance.
Purpose: It helps homeowners, engineers, and solar installers determine the appropriate solar generator size for off-grid or backup power systems.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The energy requirement is divided by the product of sunlight hours and performance ratio to determine the solar panel wattage needed.
Details: Accurate solar power estimation ensures your system meets energy needs, avoids oversizing (which increases costs), and accounts for real-world efficiency losses.
Tips: Enter your daily energy needs in watt-hours, average sunlight hours (default 5), and performance ratio (default 0.75). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is the performance ratio?
A: This accounts for system losses (typically 0.7-0.8) due to temperature, wiring, inverters, dirt, and other factors.
Q2: How do I find my daily energy requirement?
A: Sum the watt-hours of all devices you'll power (Watts × Hours used per day).
Q3: What are typical sunlight hours?
A: Varies by location (3-6 hours in most areas). Check solar maps for your region.
Q4: Should I round up the result?
A: Yes, solar panels come in standard sizes. Round up to the nearest available panel wattage.
Q5: Does this include battery storage?
A: No, this calculates panel requirements only. Battery sizing depends on days of autonomy needed.