How many solar panels do I need for my home?
By My Energy Mate Editorial · Last updated
Quick Answer
Most Australian homes install 15-22 panels (6.6-10 kW using 440-475 W panels). Divide your daily electricity usage in kWh by 4 to estimate the kilowatts of solar you need, then add capacity for a battery or EV if planned.
The old rule of thumb (one panel per 1.5 kWh of daily usage) has shifted as panels grew: a modern 450 W panel produces roughly 1.8 kWh per day averaged year-round in most capitals.
A typical 20 kWh/day household is well served by a 6.6 kW system (15 panels). Homes with pools, EVs, heat pumps or planned batteries should size to 10-13 kW while the crew is on the roof: adding panels later costs far more per panel.
Roof orientation matters less than most buyers think: north is ideal, but east-west splits sacrifice only 10-15% annually and better match morning/evening usage.
Go deeper: Solar Panels comparison table or the cost guide.