How Much Will a 4.2kW Solar System Save?
Installing a 4.2kW solar system can lead to substantial savings on electricity bills. On average, homeowners can save up to $1,303 per year by harnessing solar energy through this system. Over the 25-year lifespan of the solar panels, these savings can amount to an impressive $32,576.
Rising Cost of Electricity
One of the primary driving factors for adopting solar energy is the rising cost of electricity. Over the past 40 years, electricity costs have increased by a staggering 270%. This continuous rise in electricity prices is depicted in the chart below.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
By investing in a solar system, homeowners can mitigate the impact of increasing electricity costs.
See also: Solar Panel Systems: The Ultimate Guide to Going Green in 2023
Electricity Saving
When you generate solar energy, you become less dependent on utility companies for electricity. The more self-generated electricity you consume, the less you will have to pay to utility companies. This allows homeowners to take control of their electricity consumption and reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources.
Solar Energy for a Profit
The benefits of solar energy extend beyond saving on electricity bills. With a 4.2kW solar system, you can generate more electricity than you consume. The excess electricity can be sold back to the grid, allowing you to earn an additional income. Currently, you can expect a 20% return on investment per year on your solar panel investment based on current electricity costs.
4.2kW Solar Panel System Price
The typical cost for a 4.2kW solar system is approximately $8,400. However, it is important to note that solar panel prices have significantly decreased over the past decade, making solar energy more accessible and affordable for homeowners.
Source: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
4.2kW System with Battery Backup
To ensure uninterrupted power supply, homeowners can opt for a 4.2kW solar system with battery backup. When choosing a battery type, it is recommended to use lithium polymer batteries rather than lead-acid batteries. For a 4.2kW system with lead-acid batteries, you will require 50 kWh of storage capacity. On the other hand, with lithium polymer batteries, you will only need 26 kWh of storage capacity. Opting for lithium batteries can significantly reduce the number of batteries required and decrease installation costs.
It is advisable to purchase both batteries and solar panels together to further reduce costs and ensure compatibility.
4.2kW Off-Grid Solar System
If you are looking to go off-grid and rely solely on solar energy, a 4.2kW solar system can meet your needs. To create a self-sufficient off-grid system, you will need to purchase at least 14 solar panels. Additionally, you will require 26 kWh worth of lithium polymer batteries for a full cycle. The typical cost of batteries required to run a 4.2kW off-grid solar system is approximately $12,436.
How Many Panels Are Needed?
To achieve a 4.2kW solar system, you will require at least 14 solar panels. Taking into account the standard wattage of solar panels, which is typically around 300 watts, each panel contributes to the overall capacity of the system.
If you need different power requirements, check out 4.1 kW solar systems
How Big is a 4.2kW Solar System?
Each solar panel has a size of approximately 17 sqft, meaning that for a 4.2kW solar system, with a minimum of 14 panels, the total footprint would be approximately 238 sqft. It is important to consider available roof or ground space when planning the installation of a solar system.
How Many kWh Does a 4.2kW Solar System Produce? (Load Per Day)
A 4.2kW solar system can typically produce around 21 kWh of electricity per day. This output assumes that the panels receive a minimum of 5 hours of direct sunlight. On a monthly basis, this translates to 630 kWh and an annual production of 7,665 kWh.
There are also 4.5 kW solar systems if you need a different sized system.
How Many Batteries Needed For a 4.2kW Solar Panel System?
The number of batteries required for a 4.2kW solar panel system depends on the battery type in use. If you opt for the recommended lithium polymer batteries, you will need 26 kWh worth of batteries. Homeowners have the option to purchase a single battery system or wire several smaller batteries together, depending on their specific requirements and budget.
Is a 4.2kW Solar System Worth It?
Considering the potential savings and return on investment, a 4.2kW solar system is undoubtedly a worthy investment. If you live in an area with ample sunlight, you can expect to generate $1,303 worth of electricity annually. With the current cost of the solar system at $8,400, this represents a 20% return on investment. Taking into account the decreasing costs of solar panels and the rising cost of electricity, a 4.2kW solar system presents an attractive financial opportunity for homeowners.
Solar energy is not only financially rewarding but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future. By harnessing the power of the sun, homeowners can take control of their energy consumption while reducing their impact on the environment.
