How Much Will a 8.1kW Solar System Save?
When investing in a solar system, one of the main considerations is how much it can help you save on your electricity bills. An 8.1kW solar system has the potential to save you a significant amount of money in the long run. On average, you can save up to $2,513 per year with this system. Over the 25-year lifetime of the panels, this translates to a total savings of $62,826.
Rising Cost of Electricity
The cost of electricity has been steadily increasing over the past few decades. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there has been a 270% increase in electricity costs over the past 40 years. This upward trend is expected to continue, making solar energy an even more attractive option for cost savings.
Source:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
See also: Solar Panel Systems: The Ultimate Guide to Going Green in 2023
Electricity Saving
One of the key benefits of a solar system is the ability to generate your own electricity. The more self-generated electricity you use, the less you need to rely on utility companies and pay their increasing rates. By utilizing the power of the sun, you can significantly reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your monthly electricity bills.
Solar Energy for a Profit
With an 8.1kW solar system, you have the potential to generate more electricity than you consume. The excess energy can be sold back to the grid, allowing you to earn money for the electricity you produce. In fact, you can expect a 20% return on your investment per year based on the current electricity costs. This makes solar energy not only a sustainable choice but also a profitable one.
8.1kW Solar Panel System Price
The typical cost for an 8.1kW solar system is approximately $16,200. However, it’s worth noting that solar panel prices have significantly come down over the past 10 years. This price includes the cost of the panels, installation, and other necessary components.
Source:
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
8.1kW System with Battery Backup
For those who want to have a backup power source during outages or ensure a continuous power supply, a solar system with battery backup is recommended. When choosing batteries, there are two common types: lead-acid and lithium polymer.
Lead Acid Sizing: 8.1kWh x 2 (for 50% depth of discharge) x 1.2 (inefficiency
factor) = 97 kWh
Lithium Sizing: 8.1kWh x 1.2 (for 80% depth of discharge) x 1.05 (inefficiency
factor) = 51 kWh
Lithium batteries are highly recommended as they provide greater efficiency and longer lifespan. With lithium batteries, you’ll only need half as many batteries compared to lead-acid batteries. Additionally, purchasing batteries and panels together can help reduce costs.
8.1kW Off-Grid Solar System
If you’re considering an off-grid solar system, meaning you want to completely disconnect from the utility grid, there are certain requirements to meet. For an 8.1kW system, you’ll generally need to buy 27 or more panels to meet the power demands. You’ll also need 51 kWh worth of lithium polymer batteries to ensure a full cycle of power. The typical cost for these batteries is $23,984.
How Many Panels Are Needed?
Most solar panels have a capacity of 300 watts. To achieve an 8.1kW solar system, you will need 27 or more panels. Each panel has a size of approximately 17 sqft, so the total footprint for a 27-panel system would be approximately 459 sqft.
How Big is a 8.1 kW Solar System?
As mentioned earlier, each panel for an 8.1kW solar system is approximately 17 sqft. With a total of 27 panels, the system’s overall size would be 459 sqft. Considering the space required for solar panels is essential when planning for installation.
How Many kWh Does a 8.1kW Solar System Produce? (Load Per Day)
The output of an 8.1kW solar system will depend on various factors, including the location, weather conditions, and panel efficiency. On average, you can expect a daily output of approximately 41 kWh. This assumes that the panels receive at least 5 hours of sunlight. Over a month, this translates to approximately 1,215 kWh, and over a year, it amounts to 14,783 kWh.
There are also 9 kW solar systems if you need a different sized system.
How Many Batteries Needed For an 8.1kW Solar Panel System?
The number of batteries required for your 8.1kW solar panel system will depend on the type of battery you choose. If you opt for lithium polymer batteries, the recommended type, you’ll need 51 kWh worth of batteries. You have the option to buy a single large battery or wire several smaller batteries together to achieve the required capacity.
Is an 8.1kW Solar System Worth It?
Considering the potential savings and returns, investing in an 8.1kW solar system is a financially wise decision. With adequate sun exposure, you can generate approximately $2,513 worth of electricity every year. Based on the current cost of the system, $16,200, this translates to a 20% return on investment. Investing in a solar system not only helps the environment but also provides an excellent long-term cost-saving opportunity.
