How many solar panels do I need in Ireland ?

How many solar panels do I need ?

Understanding what the biggest users of electricity in the home are and how to reduce consumption is critical to keeping bills low and money in your pocket.
For example, unplugging electronics when not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs, and adjusting the thermostat by a degree or two can all add up to significant savings over time.
One should highly consider investing in a solar power system for your home as a permanent alternative way to save more money long term

What determines the amount of solar panels ?

Prior to installing a solar power system on your home, it is necessary to have an understanding of the basic requirements, such as the type of panel and the number of panels required based on your energy consumption. Fortunately, there are several ways to calculate the required number of solar panels, either through a not-so-complex formula or rough estimation based on some factors.

For the most accurate calculation of your requirements for a solar panel installation its always best to book a Free Survey with one of our expert team who conduct a thorough assessment of your property and explain the results in detail. Alternatively we have listed some common factors to take into consideration to determine your needs.

Things to consider when installing solar ?

What are your current daily energy needs ?
The orientation or direction you dwelling is facing
How big is the surface area you can dedicate to solar panels
Your budget and type of panel you will go for

Calculate your current daily energy needs

As you contemplate switching to solar, it’s important to bear in mind that it isn’t solely your solar panel’s wattage that is crucial but first and foremost the daily and annual amount of energy that your home consumes. This will directly impact the amount and type of solar panel your home will require.

The biggest factors that affect your daily energy consumption are your electrical appliances. Doing a mini audit on your appliances and assessing how much they use is one way to determine your needs. Alternatively the quickest and most effective way of estimating your annual energy consumption is by checking your utility bill from the previous year. This will offer you detailed information regarding the yearly power consumption in kWh. Having this information to hand will put you in a better position to make the right decision regarding a solar panel package that works best for your home.

Which direction your home faces

As you may already know, the design and architecture of your house can play a huge role in ensuring that your solar panels can function at their optimal level. In fact, it’s not just the placement of your panels that matters, but the inclination and overall construction of your roof that plays a pivotal role, too. Factors such as the level of tree shade or any obstruction of sunlight around your house will certainly affect the number of solar panels you will require. In order to ensure you get the most out of your solar panels, we strongly recommend seeking professional advice from one of our expert consultants. We can provide valuable insights on what kind of solar panels would work best for you and where they should be placed to maximise efficiency.

Surface area of your roof

Before installing solar panels on your roof, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the angle of your roof is an important factor as it affects the amount of sunlight that your solar panels will receive throughout the day. Additionally, the amount of space that your rooftop will determine the amount of panels your home can take. It is crucial to ensure that your solar panels are securely installed on your rooftop and have adequate space to function efficiently. If you have a smaller-sized roof, then smaller high-efficiency panels may be the most suitable option for your needs. However, on a larger roof, you may have the space to incorporate a larger system.

Your budget

A home photovoltaic solar panel system is definitely an investment worth considering if you are looking to save on electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint. It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of installation can vary depending on several factors that can influence the final cost of the project. Common factors may include the type of solar panels you choose, the size of the system, the mounting hardware needed and the location of your home. With all these factors in mind, typically, a home photovoltaic solar panel system can cost anywhere from €1,500 – €2,000 per kW installed (ex-VAT). Contact us today and have one of our specialist survey team help find a solution that fits your needs, budget, and energy saving goals.