How Much Will a 1.5kW Solar System Save?
When considering a solar system, one of the primary concerns is potential savings. With a 1.5kW solar system, you can save up to $465 per year. Over the 25-year lifespan of the solar panels, this translates to a savings of $11,634. These savings are based on the assumption that you will utilize the self-generated solar energy and reduce your reliance on grid electricity.
Rising Cost of Electricity
To understand the significance of these savings, it’s important to consider the rising cost of electricity. Over the past 40 years, there has been a whopping 270% increase in electricity costs. This steady rise makes solar energy an increasingly attractive option for homeowners seeking to escape the burden of escalating utility bills.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
See also: Solar Panel Systems: The Ultimate Guide to Going Green in 2023
Electricity Saving
By investing in a 1.5kW solar system, you can reduce your dependence on utility companies and save on electricity costs. The more solar energy you self-generate, the less you need to purchase from the grid. This reduction in electricity consumption leads to significant savings over time.
Solar Energy for a Profit
In addition to saving on electricity bills, the excess energy generated by your 1.5kW solar system can be sold back to the grid. This means that what you don’t use can actually earn you money. With current electricity costs, you can expect a 20% return on your investment per year, based on the panels’ performance and the selling price of excess energy.
1.5kW Solar Panel System Price
Now that we’ve established the potential savings and benefits of a 1.5kW solar system, let’s delve into the cost aspect. The typical price for a 1.5kW solar system is around $3,000. It’s important to note that prices have significantly decreased over the past decade, making solar energy much more accessible and affordable for homeowners.
Source: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
1.5kW System with Battery Backup
While a 1.5kW solar system can operate solely on solar energy during the day, you might want to consider incorporating battery backup for uninterrupted power supply. When it comes to selecting the right batteries, there are two main options: lead acid and lithium polymer.
For a 1.5kW system, lead acid batteries would require a sizing of 1.5kWh x 2 (for 50% depth of discharge) x 1.2 (inefficiency factor), resulting in a requirement of 18 kWh. On the other hand, lithium polymer batteries would only require 1.5kWh x 1.2 (for 80% depth of discharge) x 1.05 (inefficiency factor), resulting in a requirement of 9 kWh. As you can see, lithium batteries are highly recommended as they require only half the capacity of lead acid batteries.
To reduce costs, it’s advisable to purchase batteries and solar panels together as a package.
1.5kW Off-Grid Solar System
If you are interested in an off-grid solar system, where you are completely independent of the utility grid, there are specific considerations to keep in mind for a 1.5kW system. In this scenario, it is recommended to purchase 5 or more panels to generate sufficient power. Additionally, you will need 9 kWh worth of lithium polymer batteries to ensure a full cycle of energy supply. The typical cost of batteries required to run a 1.5kW off-grid system is $4,442.
How Many Panels Are Needed?
To achieve a 1.5kW solar system, which is the desired capacity, you will require multiple solar panels. Since most panels available on the market are 300 watts each, you will need 5 or more panels to reach the desired capacity of 1.5kW.
If you need different power requirements, check out 1 kW solar systems
How Big is a 1.5 kW Solar System?
Considering the physical space required for a 1.5kW solar system, it’s important to take into account the size of each panel. Since each panel is approximately 17 sqft, and you will need 5 panels, the total footprint of the system will be 85 sqft. It’s crucial to ensure you have adequate roof space or a suitable spot for the panels to maximize their exposure to sunlight.
How Many kWh Does a 1.5kW Solar System Produce? (Load Per Day)
The load capacity of a 1.5kW solar system is determined by the amount of sunlight the panels receive. In ideal conditions, where the panels receive at least 5 hours of sunlight per day, a typical 1.5kW solar system can produce 8 kWh of electricity. This translates to approximately 225 kWh per month and 2,738 kWh per year.
There are also 2 kW solar systems if you need a different sized system.
How Many Batteries Needed for a 1.5kW Solar Panel System?
The number of batteries required for a 1.5kW solar system depends on the battery type. If using the recommended lithium polymer batteries, you would need a capacity of 9 kWh worth of batteries. You have the option to purchase a single battery system or connect several smaller batteries together, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Is a 1.5kW Solar System Worth It?
Considering the potential savings and benefits of a 1.5kW solar system, it is undoubtedly worth the investment. If you live in an area with decent sunlight, you have the potential to generate $465 worth of electricity every year. This equates to a 20% return on investment based on the current cost of the system, which is approximately $3,000. It’s clear that a 1.5kW solar system offers a great deal in terms of long-term savings and sustainability.
By harnessing the power of the sun, you can take control of your energy needs, reduce your environmental impact, and enjoy significant financial benefits. Investing in a 1.5kW solar system is not only a wise financial decision but also a step towards a greener future.
