Because of its plentiful sunshine, reduced costs, and government incentives, Australia has emerged as a global leader in solar energy. In an effort to lower their electricity costs, a lot of businesses and homes are switching to solar power. Still, a question needs to be answered: “How many solar panels do I need in 2024?”
This guide will assist you in figuring out how many solar panels your house or place of business needs in 2024, taking into account new developments in solar technology.
YOUR ENERGY USAGE
It’s important to understand your energy use prior to estimating the number of solar panels you require. The average Australian home uses 15 to 30 kWh of electricity a day, depending on the size of the household, the equipment, and the user’s energy usage habits.
Your Electricity Bill: Your estimated daily and monthly energy use is shown on your statement in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
Your demand: Keep an eye on how much energy is used during peak hours, such as noon, when appliances like dishwashers and air conditioners are operating.
EFFECTIVENESS OF SOLAR PANELS IN 2024
The efficiency of solar panels has increased periodically; in 2024, typical efficiency will range from 18% to 22%. These days, 400W to 500W modern panels are typical. A single panel’s daily output can range from 1.5 to 2 kWh, depending on installation angle and location.
GEOGRAPHIC POSITION AND SUNLIGHT
Australia’s geographic position provides excellent solar exposure, however sunshine hours vary by area. Northern Australia (Queensland, Northern Territory) receives 6-8 hours of peak sunshine each day. Southern Australia (Victoria, Tasmania) receives around 4-6 hours of peak sunshine every day.
This determines the number of solar panels required. For example, to produce the same amount of energy, Queensland requires a smaller number of solar panels than Victoria.
SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM SIZES:
Here’s an estimate of the number of panels required for various system sizes in 2024, assuming 400-watt panels and 5 peak sunlight hours per day:
- 3 kW System: approximately 8 panels.
- 5 kW System: Approximately 13 panels.
- 6.6 kW System: around 16-17 panels.
- 10 kW System: Approximately 25 panels.
These systems can accommodate a wide range of family sizes, from small apartments to enormous homes.
MOST COMMON SOLAR PANEL SYSTEMS IN 2024
The most popular home systems in 2024 are:
- The 5 kW system is ideal for medium-sized households with moderate energy usage.
- The 6.6 kW system strikes a balance between cost and energy production for bigger houses.
- 10 kW System: Designed for high-energy consumers or households equipped with solar batteries and electric cars.
These technologies can be combined with batteries to increase energy independence.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT YOUR SOLAR PANEL NEEDS
Several factors determine the number of panels needed:
- Roof dimensions and orientation: The greatest sunlight is received by rooftops that face south. Trees or structures can provide shade, reducing efficiency.
- Battery-based energy storage: Solar batteries store extra energy, eliminating the need for more panels.
- Government Incentives: Programs such as the “Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES)” cut installation costs, making solar panels more accessible.
- Solar Panel Quality: Higher-quality panels are more efficient, requiring less to satisfy your energy demands.
IN 2024, WILL YOU STILL NEED SOLAR PANELS FOR BATTERIES?
You might wish to add more solar panels to create more energy for storage if you install a solar battery, such a Tesla Powerwall. A 10-kWh battery, for instance, can increase your self-sufficiency by storing extra energy throughout the day for usage at night.
