Most solar panel installation in Sydney options limit solar panel placement to rooftops. The area required for solar panel installation determines the number of panels needed. That becomes one of the various elements of solar panels cost. The selection and calculation of the area necessary for solar panels matters. It guides the procurement and installation of solar panels.
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Calculating the Area Required for Solar Panel Installation: A Guide
Australia lies on the Sunbelt. That gives its solar energy consumers an advantage due to the extended exposure to the sun. There are factors to consider in determining the number of solar panels required.
These steps, in turn, show the amount of space required for solar panels, as seen below:
Confirm the current energy consumption.
The most recent electricity bills are featured here. They show the average energy consumption daily, monthly, or annually. The consumption quantities appear as units or kWh on bills. Many bills do not show the daily consumption. To get the daily average consumption, divide the monthly bill by 30.
Also, divide the cumulative annual bill by 365 or 30. The result gives the average daily and monthly consumption, respectively. That data will guide in calculating the amount of power required. It will show the number of solar panels that will suffice.
The intention of installing the panels
The expectations of installing solar panels are another guide. It matters whether the solar panels are a complete replacement for electricity. The calculations here depend on the intended extent of solar power usage. Maybe the desire for solar panels is to reduce or eliminate electricity consumption.
Establish the amount of solar power needed.
Find out the wattage of the solar panels available for installation. The calculations here will also depend on the existing energy consumption. Then, the resulting figures will determine the amount of solar energy required.
Divide the average monthly consumption by the solar wattage of one of the solar panels. The outcome is the number of solar panels required to generate the power needed. The higher the efficiency or output of the solar panels, the fewer panels it will require.
Defining the area required for the panels’ installation
After arriving at the number of solar panels required:
- Find the dimensions of one panel.
- Calculate the square area of one of the panels.
- Consider that there should be a space between panels installed on the roof. The space allows movement around the panel during their cleaning and maintenance.
- Multiply the number of panels required by the surface area of one of the panels. That and the spacing will show the required area for installation.
Other factors to consider:
- The location of mounting the solar panels
The best location should have optimum sun exposure during daylight hours. Regions that experience more intense and prolonged sunlight require fewer solar panels. Mounting the panels on the ground and the elevation angle are other factors to consider.
- The budget
Consider whether the installation is a one-off project or will continue over time. Solar panel installation and integration is an expensive affair. There are other expenses to factor including installation fees. The solar panels the buyer can afford determine the area required for installation.
- Seasonal weather changes
When calculating energy consumption, consider the fluctuation in the availability of sunlight. There is reduced performance of the solar power system during winter.
Conclusion
Various supplier and installer websites have calculators. They calculate the number of solar panels required for installation. However, most of them give estimates applicable in standard ideal situations. Such estimates will not suit all consumers. Even with personal calculations, engaging a professional for a quote is wise. The technician will give concise figures. They will eliminate errors when planning a solar power installation project.
