Switching to solar energy can be both exciting and daunting. After all, there’s much to consider before changing your power usage.
Many may wonder, “How many solar panels do I need to power my house? How can I determine an accurate number of solar panels so I’m not using too much or too little energy in your home?”
We’ll break down how these calculations are made in three main ways.
Know Your Roof
Your roof is just as much of a determining factor for your solar solutions as the rooms in your home. Your home should meet the following minimum requirements to determine the number of panels you’ll need:
- Where does your roof face? – Your roof should be ‘south facing’ to properly utilise the sun’s rays on a consistent basis. For this reason, north-facing roofs are often ineligible for solar panels.
- How fortified is your roof? – The strength capacity of your roof can determine the number of solar panels it can handle. Most panels can weigh anywhere from 18 – 30 kg. Older roofs will need to be updated before considering holding solar panels.
- What size is your roof? – A smaller terraced home will likely fit significantly fewer panels than a large Victorian detached home. But that doesn’t mean it will generate less energy. High-powered solar panels are a great solution for homes that have less roof surface area to work with.
How many solar panels am I allowed on my roof?
You’ll be happy to know there is technically no legal maximum number of panels you can have on your roof in the UK. It is important to know, however, that the lowest kW requirements for solar panels require at least 15 m² or over 160 ft² of roof space.
Determine Your Energy Needs
There is no set number that definitely determines your home’s solar panel requirements. However, there are guidelines that can help you determine a rough estimate.
For example, the average one-bedroom home in the UK requires about six solar panels. For each additional bedroom, you will likely need another two panels. So, a three-bedroom home will likely need 14 panels, and a five-bedroom will need 16 panels.
Still, this can change depending on your energy usage as well. If you have a larger family that owns and powers plenty of electronics, your home will need more panels regardless of its size.
Consider Local Regulation Before Installing
The UK has strict regulations for installing a solar panel system. Some of these include the following:
- Building regulatory approval is required for any installation project.
- Panels should be installed far enough away from listed buildings and conservation sites.
- They shouldn’t be installed at the highest point of your roof.
- It should have minimal impact on your home’s outer appearance.
Be sure to do thorough research to understand your locality’s regulations and requirements for installing your solar panels in your neighbourhood.
Types of Solar Panels
When you account for your home’s unique energy needs, you will also need to consider the type of panels that will suit your lifestyle best. Below are some examples of solar panels commonly used:
Monocrystalline solar panels – These panels use only one piece of silicon to allow energy to flow directly through. They are considered the most efficient solar panels and are ideal for the cloudy and unpredictable conditions in the UK.
Polycrystalline solar panels – It’s made similar to monocrystalline with many pure silicon pieces to convert sunlight to electricity. Though less efficient than monocrystalline panels, these panels are incredibly cost-effective and a great option for those looking for a more durable solution.
Thin film solar panels – Using the same photovoltaic material, this film is adhered to glass, metals, or plastic and installed onto a rooftop. These panels are more appropriate for a commercial solar panel, as they are least efficient, taking up to 20% of sunlight and converting it to energy.
While one of these options may seem like the perfect fit for your home, it’s always important to consult a professional on what is best for your home. Use our online form to enquire today about installing your solar panels.
Smartly Energy Can Help With Your Solar Needs
If you’re still unsure of exactly what solar panels you need or how many your home will require, we’re here to help. Speak with a member of our friendly Smartly Energy team today to get started on using sustainable energy in your home.
Check out our other blog posts on solar panel solutions here.
