Introduction:
Still trying to figure out if getting solar is worth it for your property? In this post we’ll break down all the methods and ways we calculate each homeowners potential savings with a brand new solar system.
Disclaimer: all solar calculations are based on optimal solar angle, azimuth, sunlight exposure and direction unless otherwise stated
Table of contents:
- Introduction
- Video guide (our methods)
- Why we calculate your potential savings
- How we calculate solar savings
- Basic Math
- Solar Software
- Historical data
- Conclusion
How we calculate solar savings
In this video we break down all our methods to accurate quote solar savings, watch how we justify our solar savings in this video guide.
Why we calculate your potential savings
Calculating solar savings is essential for homeowners and businesses looking to maximize their investment in renewable energy. By comparing different solar system sizes with your energy bills, you can identify the most cost-effective solution tailored to your specific needs. This comparison helps in determining the optimal system size that can offset your energy consumption, leading to significant reductions in electricity costs.
Understanding solar savings also enables you to evaluate the return on investment and the payback period, ensuring that you make an informed decision. Moreover, accurate solar savings calculations can highlight potential government incentives and rebates, further enhancing the financial benefits. Ultimately, knowing your solar savings empowers you to make environmentally and economically sound choices, contributing to a sustainable future while enjoying lower energy expenses.
How we calculate solar savings
You might have noticed the ‘savings per quarter’ stickers we have on all of our solar packages, this is to give you a certain idea of the size of the solar system compared to your power bill, it gives you a quick understanding of the potential savings your new solar system can give you without having to know all the complicated ins and outs of the technical jargon.
Method 1 (basic):
Depending on the desired solar system, we take into account the maximum solar array and the size of the inverter they’re attached to. To calculate the savings of a 6.6kW solar system with a 5kW inverter we will do basic math outlined by the CEC (clean energy council) and their 5.5 hours of peak sunlight hours in a day guidelines. We first take the 6.6 of the solar size and multiple it by the sunlight hours of the day: 6.6 x 5.5 = 36.3kWh produced per day in optimal lighting.
This is what we would say is the best outcome from a solar system this size, of course throughout the year and changing seasons this number will fluctuate. Here in Darwin the middle of the year is the best performing time
Method 2 (scientific):
In this modern age we have access to some pretty sophisticated means of predicating solar production, one of the most accurate methods is using satelite imagery tools that have inbuilt algorithms that calculate every bit of solar production. We input solar panel type with its corresponding efficiency, inverter type, size and efficiency rating and most imporantly we input into the software your direct solar array created specifically for your roof, calculating direction, tilt and string arrangement (groupings of panels).
Tools we use are:
See below fig. of an average 15kW solar system and its respective calculated productions, this is what you can expect with all of our solar packages, we will design your solar array for your property and send to you for approval.
Method 3 (similar customer data):
By analysing data from houses with similar roof orientations, shading, and energy consumption patterns, we can accurately predict how much energy a solar system will generate on your property. This approach allows us to customise recommendations, ensuring that the system size and configuration are optimised for your specific needs. By comparing your property to similar homes with existing solar installations, we can provide realistic expectations for energy savings and system performance, giving you confidence in your investment. This data-driven matching process not only enhances the accuracy of our solar assessments but also helps you make informed decisions that align with both your energy goals and financial objectives.
That’s the benefit of being operating in the Territory for the last 7 years with hundreds of customers!
Conclusion
Calculating solar savings is a vital step in making an informed decision about investing in solar energy. By exploring the three methods—using basic math based on solar size and sunlight hours, leveraging advanced solar software tools, and examining historical data from similar properties—you can gain a comprehensive understanding of your potential savings.
Each method offers unique insights, from simple estimates to more precise calculations, helping you determine the best solar solution for your needs. Whether you prefer a straightforward approach or rely on detailed analytics, these methods collectively ensure that you can maximize your energy savings, reduce your carbon footprint, and make a smart, sustainable investment in solar power.
Get a Quote
