Solar Panel Calculator

Calculate the potential solar energy production, cost savings, and environmental impact of installing solar panels on your property. This calculator helps you make informed decisions about solar panel installation by estimating energy generation and financial benefits based on your specific location and setup.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Enter your roof’s available area in square feet
2. Input your location’s average daily sun hours
3. Select the solar panel efficiency rating
4. Enter your current electricity rate
5. The calculator will provide estimates for:
   • Potential energy production
   • Annual cost savings
   • Environmental impact
   • System size recommendations

Understanding the Results

Energy Production

The calculator estimates your potential solar energy production in kilowatt-hours (kWh) based on:

• Available roof area
• Solar panel efficiency
• Average daily sun hours
• System losses (factored automatically)

Cost Savings

Financial calculations include:

• Annual electricity cost savings
• Estimated payback period
• Potential tax incentives and rebates
• Long-term return on investment

Environmental Impact

See your potential environmental benefits:

• CO2 emissions reduced
• Equivalent trees planted
• Carbon footprint reduction

Technical Notes

Solar Panel Efficiency

• Standard panels: 15-20% efficiency
• Premium panels: 20-23% efficiency
• High-end panels: 23%+ efficiency

Factors Affecting Production

• Panel orientation and tilt
• Shading and obstructions
• Weather patterns
• Seasonal variations
• System losses (wiring, inverter, etc.)

Tips for Maximizing Solar Production

1. Optimal Orientation

   • South-facing roof sections are ideal
   • East/West orientations can still be effective
   • Avoid heavily shaded areas

2. Panel Maintenance

   • Regular cleaning improves efficiency
   • Snow removal in winter
   • Annual professional inspections

3. System Sizing

   • Match system size to energy needs
   • Consider future usage changes
   • Account for available roof space

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate are the calculations?

The calculator provides estimates based on typical conditions and average performance metrics. Actual results may vary based on specific local conditions, installation quality, and weather patterns.

What affects solar panel efficiency?

• Temperature (panels are less efficient in extreme heat)
• Dust and dirt accumulation
• Panel age and degradation
• Shading from trees or structures
• Weather conditions

How long do solar panels last?

Most solar panels come with 25-30 year warranties and can continue producing energy beyond that timeframe, though with slightly reduced efficiency (typically 0.5-1% per year).

What maintenance is required?

Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance:

• Periodic cleaning (2-4 times per year)
• Annual professional inspection
• Monitoring system performance
• Occasional inverter replacement (10-15 years)

Related Resources

• Check local solar incentives and rebates
• Consult with certified solar installers
• Review utility net metering policies
• Consider battery storage options