Quantifying the Energy Output of Solar Panels

Quantifying the Energy Output of Solar Panels

21 Comments / Blog / By

How Much Energy Does a Solar Panel Produce?

By Isaac Ost | Aug 17, 2023

One of the most important features of a solar panel is how much energy it can produce. After all, that’s what they’re designed to do! Prospective solar panel owners usually have a goal for how much energy they want to produce. Maybe it is 100% of their household needs or even just 50%. In any case, there are a number of factors that will influence the energy production capabilities of a solar panel and how many panels they’ll need.

With the cost of solar dropping over 60% in the last 10 years and a 30% tax solar credit available to all homeowners, it is much more realistic for home and business owners to install solar panels on their property. In this post, we explore how solar panels function and produce energy. First, let’s go over the basics.

How Does a Solar Panel Produce Energy?

Solar panels work by allowing particles of light, called photons, to knock electrons from their atomic orbitals. The electrons are captured on conductors in the form of an electric current and this electricity is harnessed and preserved. The area where this reaction occurs is called a photovoltaic cell or solar cell. Solar panels (or modules) are made up of hundreds or thousands of these cells, and multiple solar panels make up a solar array. These arrays are connected into the existing electrical grid and/or battery storage so that the generated energy can be directed properly.

Key Solar Panel Terms: kW, kWh, DC, and AC

To fully understand the numbers, we need to go over some basic units.

  • Kilowatt (kW): This is a measure of electrical power, which is equal to 1,000 watts. The electrical energy that is generated by a solar panel or a solar system can be expressed as watts or kilowatts.
  • Kilowatt-hour (kWh) – A measure of electrical energy that is equal to the consumption of 1,000 watts for 1 hour. The kWh is used as a billing unit for the energy consumed by individuals. One kilowatt-hour equates to 3.6 megajoules.
  • Direct Current (DC) power: This is the form of the power that gets initially generated from the panel.
  • Alternating Current (AC) power: Most household appliances use AC power. The DC electricity generated by solar panels gets converted into AC so that it can be used efficiently by consumers throughout their house.

How many Watts does a solar panel produce?

In 2023, residential solar panels are typically rated to produce 250 to 450 Watts per hour of direct sunlight. Today, the most common power rating is 400 Watts as it provides a good balance of efficiency and affordability. A 400 Watt panel with 4.5 direct sun hours a day can be expected to produce 1,800 Watt-hours of DC electricity per day — or roughly 1,750 Watt-hours once it’s converted to AC electricity — which is more than enough to power a refrigerator and lighting needs for the average US household.

To measure how much electricity a solar panel produces you’ll need two figures:

  1. The solar output of the panel (measured in Watts)
  2. The number of peak sun hours per day (in hours) for your area

Solar panel output varies by model and ranges from around 250 to 450 Watts. The Wattage output rating represents how much energy the panel can produce per hour under standard testing conditions. In 2023, 400W panels are considered standard, so we’ll use this output for our example. Peak sun hours is a measurement of how much usable sunlight your solar panels receive. This varies from over 5.75 hours per day in the Southwest to less than 4 hours per day in the northernmost parts of the US. Check the peak sun hours for your location here.

Since a majority of the US gets 4.5 peak sun hours per day or more, we’ll use 4.5 hours for our example. To calculate how much a solar panel produces per day, simply multiply the solar panel output by the peak sun hours:

400W (output) x 4.5 hours = 1,800 Watt-hours per day

We typically account for 3% loss in converting the solar energy output from DC to AC, which comes to roughly 1,750 Watt-hours. To convert to the standard measurement of kWh, simply divide by 1,000 to find that one 400W panel can produce 1.75 kWh per day.

How much energy does a solar panel produce per month?

A 400W solar panel receiving 4.5 peak sun hours per day can produce 1.75 kWh of AC electricity per day, as we found in the example above. Now we can multiply 1.75 kWh by 30 days to find that the average solar panel can produce 52.5 kWh of electricity per month. In sunny states like California, Arizona, and Florida which get around 5.25 peak sun hours per day (or more), the average 400W solar panel can produce more than 61 kWh or more of electricity per month.

To put that into perspective, the average US household electricity uses 893 kWh per month and ranges from 537 kWh per month in Hawaii to 1,200 kWh per month in Louisiana. So to offset 100% of the electricity usage for the average household getting 4.5 peak sun hours per day, you’d need a 6.7 kW solar system. (6.7 kW x 4.5 sun hours per day x 30 days per month = 893 kWh per month). That would require 17 solar panels with 400W output. In sunnier locations getting 5.25 peak sun hours per day, you’d only need a 5.67 kW system made up of 14 400W solar panels to get 100% offset. Get multiple solar quotes for your home. Start here.

Things That Affect Solar Panel Production

To get an accurate picture of solar energy output, you have to take into account a few factors like the type of panel and its environment. As we mentioned above, the biggest factors are how many peak sun hours you get per day and the power output of the panel. However, the design of the panel matters too.

Solar energy output depends on the type of panel

There are thousands of solar panel models on the market, all with unique wattages, efficiency ratings, and degradation rates. In fact, we sorted through 750 panels available through the solar.com network of installers to identify some of the best solar panels for each category. While there is a lot to consider, a good place to start is deciding between a monocrystalline and polycrystalline panel. Here are some features of each technology.

Monocrystalline solar panels

  • Higher efficiency
  • More expensive
  • Better performance in high temperatures and shady conditions

Polycrystalline

  • Lower efficiency
  • Less expensive
  • Less efficient at higher temperatures

Check this video to find out the difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels.

As you can see, each type of panel has its pros and cons. Polycrystalline, however, is a newer technology and will become more efficient over time, but if you were looking to generate the most power in the smallest amount of space, monocrystalline would be the way to go.

Cover Your Electricity Needs with Solar

To sum it up, an average 400W solar panel getting 4.5 peak sun hours per day can produce around 1.8 kWh of electricity per day and 54 kWh of electricity per month. Solar panel production varies based on the output of the panel and the available sunlight. And the amount of electricity you need from your panels depends on your energy usage and your goals. Some homeowners wish to offset 100% of their electricity usage while others are okay with less. Regardless, electricity from solar panels is cheaper per kWh than grid electricity in the vast majority of the US. The sooner you switch to solar, the sooner you can benefit from the long terms savings and price stability. Get started by setting savings goals with an Energy Advisor.

21 thoughts on “Quantifying the Energy Output of Solar Panels”

  6. bitcoin accelerator

    Bitcoin Accelerator This tool is designed to prioritize your transaction, ensuring it gets confirmed faster on the network. It’s an essential resource for anyone looking to optimize their Bitcoin experience. Don’t let slow confirmations hold you back; discover the benefits of using an accelerator today!

    Reply
  10. vinyl casino neue Spieler bonus

    Echtgeldwetten führen zu Echtgeldgewinnen, gemischte Wetten oder reine Bonusgeldwetten führen zu Bonusgeldgewinnen. Risikofreie
    Wetten auf Spiele erfüllen nicht die Umsatzbedingungen des Casinos.
    Werden bei Erhalt eines Bonus keine spezifischen Informationen zu den Umsatzbedingungen angegeben, beträgt die Umsatzbedingung 40x des
    erhaltenen Bonusbetrags.
    Außerdem gibt es noch andere Casinospiele wie Sic Bo, Dragon Tiger,
    Fan Tan und Craps. Das Live Casino enthält mehr als 200 Spiele von bekannten Software-Providern wie Evolution, Pragmatic Play und Live88.
    Das Bull Casino bietet keine native Casino App an, dafür
    aber eine Web-App, die direkt über den Browser genutzt werden kann.
    Im Bull Casino gibt es zum einen die Kategorie Tischspiele und zum anderen die Kategorien Roulette und Blackjack.
    Zur Auswahl stehen im Echtgeld Casino Slots, Tischspiele,
    Crash Games, Rubbellose und Live-Spiele.

    References:
    https://online-spielhallen.de/sugar-casino-promo-code-ihr-suser-start-in-die-welt-des-glucks/

    Reply
  11. NetBet Casino Startguthaben

    Dieser Ort ist nicht nur ein Spielbank; er spiegelt Bremens Entwicklung von einem Schlüsselspieler im maritimen Handel zu einem lebendigen Unterhaltungszentrum wider.
    Mit seiner eleganten Mischung aus traditionellen Tischspielen und modernen Spielautomaten verspricht dieser Ort eine Nacht voller Aufregung.
    Die Schlachte bietet zwischen Martinikirche und Überseestadt darüber hinaus Theater und Varieté, Weser- und Hafenrundfahrten, Übernachtungen am
    und auf dem Wasser sowie Konzerte und Veranstaltungen.
    Im Automatensaal ist es noch entspannter in Bezug auf die Kleiderordnung, denn da
    können Gäste in lockerer Freizeitkleidung spielen. In der Spielbank Bremen an den Tischen können Fans des Rouletts die amerikanische Variante spielen und zwar mit einem Mindesteinsatz von nur einem
    Euro. An den Spielautomaten kann man schon mit einem Cent Mindesteinsatz
    spielen und an der Multi-Rouletteanlage mit 12 Touchscreen Monitoren bereits ab 50 Cent.

    Täglich ab 19.00 Uhr stehen für das Pokerspiel drei Cash Game Tische
    sowie ein Tisch für die Variante Ultimate Texas Hold’em zur Verfügung.
    Beim Pokerspiel setzen die Spieler, sie gehen mit, erhöhen, setzen aus und legen ab.
    Das strategische Kartenspiel Poker wird von den Spielern in verschiedenen Varianten gespielt.

    In unmittelbarer Nähe befinden sich das Parkhaus “Kurze Wallfahrt 5 Parking” und das “BREPARKhaus Pressehaus”.
    Das umfangreiche Getränkeangebot beinhaltet neben warmen Getränken auch ganze 10 Biersorten (drei
    davon vom Fass), Spirituosen, Weiß- und Rotweine, Champagner & Sekt, Cocktails
    und nicht-alkoholische Getränke. Es gibt Veranstaltungen, die so gut sind, dass sie immer wieder stattfinden. Das Casino
    Bremen fügt sich nahtlos in das lebendige Stadtbild Bremens ein und
    hat den perfekten Platz direkt an der Weser gefunden. Das unter Denkmalschutz stehende Gebäude lässt nicht erahnen, dass sich im Inneren eine moderne und elegante Einrichtung und ein großes Spiel- und Unterhaltungsangebot verbirgt.

    References:
    https://online-spielhallen.de/meine-myempire-casino-erfahrungen-ein-detaillierter-bericht/

    Reply
  12. **how do casino VIP programs work**

    Online gambling is when you place a bet with
    real money on an uncertain outcome, with the chance to win (or lose) more money.

    Some sites are designed to take advantage of players, so knowing what to avoid can save
    you money and stress. Getting into online casino games is easier
    than ever.
    You can even play some of the free games available to try things out first.
    However, withdrawal times can vary based on the chosen payment
    method, with some casinos processing payouts within one hour.
    However, overseas gambling websites are not permitted to operate within the country.

    References:
    https://blackcoin.co/welcome-to-crown-hotels-your-ultimate-casino-experience/

    Reply
  13. best payid casinos australia

    Cumulatively, the player will have a $80 ($60 + $20) bonus over the
    first two deposits! If the second deposit is $40, the player will receive
    a bonus of $20, which is 50%, totaling $60. Once completed, you
    will activate our exclusive Casino Rocket no deposit
    bonus free spins. We will guide you on how to register with Casino Rocket bonus code,
    where to insert it, the bonus deals and a few top Casino Rocket offers.

    The casino also features a sportsbook section with dozens of sports supported, including soccer, basketball, tennis,
    and baseball. To get the most value out of your casino experience, here are some tips to save you time and help improve your winning chances.
    These organisations abide by strict rules and offer regular audits to ensure advanced security and fair play.
    In Australia, online gambling is partially legal, depending on the service you want.

    References:
    https://blackcoin.co/sol-casino-in-depth-review/

    Reply
  14. Canadian VIP casinos

    Progressive jackpots offer players the chance to win life-changing sums.
    Enjoy over 150 live dealer games, streamed in HD with interactive chat.
    If you like table games, you can play blackjack, roulette and
    baccarat. There are lots of different games, from classic
    pokies to immersive live dealer games. Completing the code on Friday
    allows players to claim 60 free spins, with a maximum win of AUD 150,
    subject to a 40x wagering requirement. The bonus is available for a variety of
    games, and wagering requirements of x40 apply.
    Free professional educational courses for online casino employees aimed
    at industry best practices, improving player experience,
    and fair approach to gambling. The player from Germany had registered at the casino and made a $100 deposit, only to
    have his account deactivated shortly afterward due to a supposed gambling addiction. This makes
    it a recommendable option for most players who are looking
    for an online casino that creates a fair environment for their
    customers.

    References:
    https://blackcoin.co/bsb007-casino-a-comprehensive-review/

    Reply
  15. 24 VIP Casino mobile

    We’ll be using the data from OSM but any spatial can be used
    for this exercise. Wolf-h3-viewer.glitch.me (via) Neat interactive visualization of Uber’s H3 hexagonal geographical indexing mechanism.
    This makes it versatile for integration into various
    geospatial workflows. H3 is well-suited for machine learning applications.

    Its strengths lie in its uniform geometry, hierarchical design,
    and ability to handle large-scale datasets with speed and precision.
    Find out about the ideal feature set for efficient Remote Support and remotely solve any IT problem.

    Thanks to AnyDesk’s low latency, teamwork is
    now easier and faster than ever. Keep your session private by blackening the screen of
    your remote device. Discover AnyDesk’s countless security features that fit to your personal security requirements.
    AnyDesk’s features aren’t set in stone.
    Spatial indexing is a technique used to structure and organize
    geospatial data efficiently, allowing for fast spatial queries
    and improved data retrieval performance. Uber developed
    H3 to solve key challenges in geospatial computing, particularly in ride-sharing,
    logistics, and location-based services. H3 is a discrete global grid system for indexing geographies into a hexagonal grid,
    developed at Uber.

    References:
    https://blackcoin.co/how-to-read-your-rivals-hands-in-poker/

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *