Load shedding and increasing electricity tariffs continue to make solar power an attractive alternative solution to powering your home and business. When one of our experienced installers comes to quote on a new solar power system , there are a number of calculations they will do to determine what size solar power system you need installed.
Kilowatt Peak (kWp)
The kilowatt peak is the output power reached by a solar panel under standardised conditions. 1 kilowatt peak of solar panelling will get you up to 1710 kilowatt hours per year in South Africa.
Kilowatt Hour (kWh)
A kilowatt hour refers to the amount of energy used in a one hour period.
PV System Size
If you install solar panels in an area of 15m2 you will be able to generate approximately 3420 kWh of electricity per year. The size of the system you require will depend on your average energy consumption in a given year. This is influenced by the number of hours electricity is consumed per day and the number of individuals and machinery using the power.
Residential homes tend to opt for 2 kWp up to 4kWp systems, providing almost 7000 kWh. Businesses would likely require larger systems depending on the estimated annual consumption. Our installers will be able to accurately guide you in selecting the appropriate size solar power system for your property.