Solar power is a sustainable energy solution, and the goal is to make the most out of it and reduce dependence on the electrical grid. While switching to solar energy seems easy, calculating the number of solar power panels required can be challenging.
During solar panel calculation, there are a variety of factors that you need to keep in mind. These include geographic location, home energy usage, number of sun's peak hours, etc. If you live in a location that receives few peak hours of sunlight, consider purchasing Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels with a high conversion rate. These solar panels can convert most solar energy to usable electricity.
The two popular solar panels from Jackery include Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels and Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels, which have a high-efficiency rate of 24.3%. This means they can convert the maximum sunlight that falls on them to generate electricity. The following table compares the features of both solar panels.
If you live in a location that receives few peak hours of sunlight, consider purchasing Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels with a high conversion rate. These solar panels can convert most solar energy to usable electricity.
But before you purchase solar panels for your power needs, read this guide. This guide will help you calculate the load wattage, power output, energy usage, backup time, etc., of the solar panels, so you make the best choice.
|
Products |
Image |
Output |
Dimension |
Weight |
Conversion Efficiency |
|
 |
200W |
Folded: 24.2 × 21.7 × 1.5 in (615 x 552 x 40 mm) Unfolded: 92.1 × 21.7 × 0.9 in (2340 x 552 x 25 mm) |
14.1 lbs (6.4±0.3 kg)
|
24.3% |
|
|
 |
100W |
Folded: 24 x 21 x 1.4 in (610 x 535 x 35 mm) Unfolded: 48 x 21 x 0.2 in (1220 x 535 x 5 mm) |
10.33 lbs (4.69 kg)
|
24.3% |
What Is a Solar Panel?
A solar panel is an array of silicon cells that convert sunlight into electricity to charge battery backups, power stations, and, in some cases, appliances. When the free sun's energy falls on the PV panels, the solar cells absorb the solar rays and then convert them into DC electric energy. These panels are designed to capture the flow of electrons and then turn them into usable electric current. There are many benefits of solar panels, including:
- Solar energy is clean, free energy, and there is no air pollution associated with it.
- There are no harmful emissions released when electricity is being produced by solar panels.
- Investing in a solar power system helps you save money on high electricity bills and even keep the lights on when the grid goes down.
The solar panel calculation involves determining the solar panel output and the daily watt-hours required. Since not all solar panels produce the same amount of electricity, you'll need to consider a few common factors like solar panel efficiency, orientation, location, and more to calculate solar panel output.
Why Does Solar Panel Calculation Matter?
Understanding the panel output helps you identify the energy production in real-world conditions. The higher the wattage of the solar power panel, the more electricity will be produced per hour. The amount of electricity or output your solar panels generate will directly impact your long-term savings.
Let's take an example to understand better: Suppose you want to power a refrigerator with the help of a solar power system. You'll like it to run for hours to keep all the perishable foods fresh and healthy. In this case, the output of solar panels will determine whether the solar panel system will meet the power needs of your refrigerator.
The Benefits of a Solar Panel
Solar panels are a clean and renewable energy source for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. Below are the benefits of using a solar panel and power station to charge your appliances.
- Clean & Green Energy:Solar panels do not emit toxic fumes while converting the sun's energy into electricity. Hence, they are a clean, green energy source that reduces your carbon footprint.
- Zero Maintenance:Solar power panels are easy to clean and maintain. All you need to do is wipe the dust off with a soft, clean cloth to improve its efficiency.
- Safe:Unlike gas generators, solar panels do not require coal or gas to generate electricity. Hence, they are pretty safe for indoor use.
- Reduces High Electricity Bills:You can power all your home appliances with solar panels and a portable power station. Thus, renewable energy helps reduce high electricity bills and save money.
- Eco-friendly:Solar panels reduce the emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, etc., into the atmosphere, making them an environment-friendly power solution.
Solar Panel Calculation
There is no single accurate answer to how many solar panels a home needs. Every home is different, and so are its power needs. Using a solar panel calculator and understanding various variables gives an accurate estimate of how many panels you'll require. Some essential factors you'll need to consider are load wattage, energy usage, solar panel backup time, efficiency, etc. Let us discuss each aspect in detail.
Solar Panel Output Calculation
Generally, solar panels produce a few hundred watts to 400 watts per hour. However, there are several external variables that affect the actual output of the panels.
Some important factors include how many hours of sunlight the solar panels receive, your location, and how many watts your panels can produce in an hour.
Formula:
To help you understand better, here is the mathematical solar panel calculation of daily watt-hours.
Daily watt hours = Average hours of sunlight × solar panel watts × 85%.
(As not all the sunlight is converted into electricity, we tested to determine that the Jackery solar panels are 85% efficient.)
Example:
Suppose you live in an area that receives 4 hours of peak sunlight, and your panel has a 200-watt rating. In this case, the solar panel output will be:
Daily watt hours = 4 × 200 × 0.85 = 680Wh.
That means one solar panel with a 200-watt capacity can produce around 680 Wh, depending on its efficiency.
For instance, if you purchase Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels, you can enjoy a high conversion rate and efficiency. Along with the portable power station, these solar panels can convert sunlight into electricity and power appliances.Load Wattage Calculation
The load wattage is the next important thing you'll need to keep in mind while buying a solar panel system. In simple words, load wattage involves analyzing your power requirements by understanding how many appliances you wish to charge and for how much time.
Formula:
To calculate the total load wattage of the electrical appliances, you need to multiply the power used by each device by the number of usage hours per day. This will give you the total kWh per day of one appliance.
Example:
For instance, if you wish to run a refrigerator for 6 hours and it consumes 300 watts per hour, here is how to calculate its load wattage.
Load Wattage = 300 × 6 = 1800 Wh.
Similarly, you can calculate the load of all other home appliances. Add them up, and you will get the total power you need for one day.
Energy Usage Calculation
The next crucial step for solar panel calculation is to determine your home's average electricity consumption and energy usage. The amount of energy an appliance uses in an hour is termed energy usage.
To get an estimated energy usage value, you need to figure out daily kWh usage, peak sun's hours, etc.
Formula:
Here is how you can calculate it:
Step 1: Calculate the kWh usage: First, you need to gather the kilowatt-hour usage from your electricity bills. Next, determine the average monthly kWh by adding 12 months of kWh usage and dividing it by 12. Divide the resulting number by 30 to calculate daily kWh usage.
Step 2: Determine peak sun hours: Note down the peak sun hours you receive. Remember, not every location gets the same amount or intensity of sunlight. To make the most of solar power, calculate the average sun hours you receive and move to the third step.
Step 3: Calculate Solar System Size: The last step is to determine the size or capacity of the solar system you'll need to power appliances. You can simply divide the daily kWh by the average sun hours. Then, multiply the result by the panel's efficiency to get an estimated solar system size.
Note: Always use highly efficient solar panels with a power station to charge appliances. Instead of connecting hundreds of solar panels, you can purchase a combination of powerful power stations with high battery capacity and connect them with solar panels.
Refer to the table to determine the energy needs of different appliances.
|
Kitchen Appliances |
Watts |
Living Room Appliances |
Watts |
Outdoor Appliances |
Watts |
|
Blender |
500 W |
TV |
150-200 W |
Band Saw |
1100 W |
|
Coffee Machine |
1000 W |
LED Bulb |
10-30 W |
Drill |
250-1000 W |
|
Dishwasher |
1200-1500 W |
Video Game Console |
150 W |
Electric Blanket |
200 W |
|
Electric Kettle |
1200 w |
Laptop |
100 W |
Hair Dryer |
1500 W |
|
Toaster |
850 W |
LCD Monitor |
100 W |
Dehumidifier |
280 W |
|
Electric Oven |
1200 W |
Printer |
100 W |
Circular Saw |
1100 W |
Solar Panel Backup Time Calculation
The backup time of the inverter or solar power station determines how long it can provide power during outdoor adventures or power outages. The backup time of a solar energy system depends on the solar battery size and charge consumed by the appliance.
The battery capacity is generally measured in AH (ampere-hour). The most common battery type is 12V, which provides 80% efficiency. The more the solar panel backup time, the longer you can run your devices.
Formula:
Here is how you can easily calculate it:
Battery Backup Time = (Battery AH × 12V × battery efficiency) ÷ Total power consumption.
Example:
Suppose you are running an appliance that consumes 100W of energy. In this case, the backup time will be: (100 AH × 12 V × 0.8) ÷ 100 watts = 9.6 hours.
Hence, you can run the appliance for 9.6 hours with a 100 AH battery capacity solar power system.
Solar Panel Cost Calculation
With the increasing popularity of solar panel systems, many homeowners are planning to harness solar energy. However, the cost associated with solar panels before switching to renewable energy is worth noting.
The main factors that affect the overall cost of solar panels include the type of panels you wish to install. For instance, if you're planning to install monocrystalline solar panels that are highly efficient, you'll need to pay a few extra bucks.
Other factors influencing solar panel calculation include size, conversation rate, and other relevant features of solar power panels.
Alternatively, you can use the solar panel cost calculator to determine the overall expenses.
Solar Panel Paycheck Period Calculation
The solar panel payback period is the estimation of the time it takes for the solar panel system to generate enough energy savings so you can offset the initial investment.
Formula:
The simple formula to calculate the payback period is the total cost of the system divided by the average yearly energy savings.
Payback Period = Total cost of solar panel system ÷ Average yearly energy savings.
Example:
Suppose you've purchased a solar system of $20,000 that helps you to reduce your electricity bills by $70 per month.
In this case, the average yearly energy savings will be $70 × 12 = $840.
Payback period = $20,000 ÷ $840 = 24 years.
Hence, solar panel systems will take 24 years to completely offset the initial investment.
Solar Panel Efficiency Calculation
Solar panel efficiency, in simple words, represents the amount of sunlight a solar panel can convert into usable electricity. It is calculated by dividing the amount of electricity produced by the solar panel by the amount of the sun that strikes the solar panel.
Formula:
Here is the mathematical representation of the solar panel efficiency.
Efficiency (%) = [(Pmax ÷ Area) ÷ 1000] × 100%.
Where
Pmax = Maximum solar panel power (measured in watts).
Area = Length × Width of solar panels (measured in sq. M).
1000 = Conversion factor to convert power output per unit area from watts per sq. M to percent.
Example:
Suppose you have a solar panel with a maximum power output of 200W and a surface area of 1.6 m2. The efficiency of solar panels would be:
Efficiency = [(200 W ÷ 1.6 m2) ÷ 1000] × 100% = 12.5%.
In this case, the solar panel efficiency is 12.5%. That said, it can convert 12.5% of the sunlight that hits the panels to electricity.
|
Surface Color |
Fraction of Incident Radiation Absorbed |
|
Dark blue to black |
0.80-0.90 |
|
Dark brown to blue |
0.70-0.80 |
|
Green, red, and brown |
0.50-0.70 |
|
Grey to dark grey |
0.40-0.50 |
|
White smooth surfaces |
0.25-0.40 |
Solar Panel Insolation Calculation
Solar panel insolation is the amount of solar energy that falls on the surface area in a specific amount of time. It is measured in kilowatt-hours per square meter per day (kWh/m2/day).
Formula:
To calculate the solar panel insolation, you can use the following formula:
I = E / A × t
Where
I = Solar insolation (kWh/m2/day)
E = Total solar energy that falls on the panel (kWh/m2)
A = Surface area (m2)
t = Length of time (day)
Example:
Suppose a 1 square meter of the surface area receives 5 hours of peak sunlight and 5 kWh of energy in a day. In this case, the insolation would be calculated as follows:
I = 5 kWh / 1 m2 × 1 day = 5 kWh/m2/day.
Note: The actual insolation will depend on multiple other factors, including but not limited to location, atmospheric conditions, time of year, etc.
What Factors Affect The Solar Panel Calculation?
The rated power wattage of the solar panels is determined in a laboratory under STC (Standard Test Conditions). It typically indicates the maximum amount of electricity the solar panel can produce under ideal circumstances. The Standard Test Conditions include 25°C (77°F) operating temperature, full solar noon sunshine of 1000W/m2, and sea level air mass (AM) of 1.5 (1 sun). When calculating the solar panel output, you will need to understand the difference between the rated power wattage of a solar panel and the real-world electricity output.
Here are the key factors that impact the real-world output of the solar panel array.
Efficiency
The efficiency of solar panels measures the sunlight received by the panels, which is eventually converted to electricity. The efficiency of PV panels depends on many factors, such as cleanliness, panel age, and temperature. The higher the efficiency, the more electricity will be generated from the available sunlight. The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are high-quality PV panels built with monocrystalline solar cells and have around 24.3% efficiency.
Orientation and Location
The following important factor that affects solar panel efficiency is the direction in which PV panels are facing. Tilt also matters as it affects the amount of electricity that falls on the PV panels. The goal is to position the panels to receive maximum sunlight. Since the rays of sunlight do not remain the same throughout the day, it is best to choose portable solar panels and a battery backup that can be carried and placed anywhere.
What Factors Affect The Solar Panel Calculation?
The rated power wattage of the solar panels is determined in a laboratory under STC (Standard Test Conditions). It typically indicates the maximum amount of electricity the solar panel can produce under ideal circumstances. The Standard Test Conditions include 25°C (77°F) operating temperature, full solar noon sunshine of 1000W/m2, and sea level air mass (AM) of 1.5 (1 sun). When calculating the solar panel output, you will need to understand the difference between the rated power wattage of a solar panel and the real-world electricity output.
Here are the key factors that impact the real-world output of the solar panel array.
Efficiency
The efficiency of solar panels measures the sunlight received by the panels, which is eventually converted to electricity. The efficiency of PV panels depends on many factors, such as cleanliness, panel age, and temperature. The higher the efficiency, the more electricity will be generated from the available sunlight. The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are high-quality PV panels built with monocrystalline solar cells and have around 24.3% efficiency.
Orientation and Location
The following important factor that affects solar panel efficiency is the direction in which PV panels are facing. Tilt also matters as it affects the amount of electricity that falls on the PV panels. The goal is to position the panels to receive maximum sunlight. Since the rays of sunlight do not remain the same throughout the day, it is best to choose portable solar panels and a battery backup that can be carried and placed anywhere.
Degradation Rate
Like anything else, PV panels degrade over time, and they generally lose around 0.5-1% of their rated output each day. If we do some math, the solar panels will still have about 90% capacity even after two decades. If you want to extend the lifespan of solar panels, make sure to keep them clean and free of debris. With regular maintenance, the PV panels will remain efficient in the long run.
Jackery Solar Panels Explained
Jackery is a renowned manufacturer of high-quality and highly efficient solar panels, power stations, and solar generators. Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are built with monocrystalline silicon solar cells that are quick to set up and carry. They are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for outdoor adventures. The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are compatible with Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations to store the generated electricity for later use.
The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are placed under direct sunlight to absorb and then convert the solar energy into direct current. The DC electricity is passed to the Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station, where it gets converted to alternating current to charge electrical appliances. In the following section, we will reveal the popular and portable solar panels from Jackery
Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels
The efficient Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels have a power rating of 200W and provide the fastest solar charging experience. It works at a power voltage of 20V and a current of 10A. The solar panels have ETFE-laminated cases, which makes them durable for a long lifespan. In addition, they have an IP68 waterproof rating to withstand wet and harsh weather conditions. They are compatible with all Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations to store power and even charge all of your appliances.
Customer Review
"These are very efficient panels. I tested them out with my Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro Portable Power Station and Jackery Explorer 1000 Pro Portable Power Station, and I was getting around 362 watts (probably more if I positioned them perfectly) with my 2 panels. Will be purchasing 2 extension cables so I can charge my batteries safely in the shade." — Christian V.
Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels have a high solar conversion efficiency of 24.3%. The foldable and portable panels have an IP65 waterproof rating, making them ideal for extreme temperatures of -10-65°C (14- 149°F). It features two USB output ports to charge small appliances like smartphones directly. The ETFE-laminated case of the solar power panels extends its lifespan and weighs only 10.33 lbs. You can connect the solar panels with all Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations to collect, convert, and charge appliances.
Customer Review
"In my tests, I found that the solar panel reached 90 watts of current; I have a Solar Generator 1000 Plus and now a total of 4 panels (so that I can sustain a 24/7 operational load). The build quality seems nice. I like that the cords seem to be about 8ft and well built. I still purchased a DC cable extension so I can put the battery indoors and have the panels outside" — Leopoldo Gomez.
|
Peak Power |
200W |
100W |
|
Efficiency |
24.3% |
24.3% |
|
Power Voltage & Current |
Power Voltage: 20V±5% Power Current: 10A±5% |
Power Voltage: 18V Power Current: 5.55A |
|
Dimensions |
Folded: 24.2 × 21.7 × 1.5 in (615 x 552 x 40 mm) Unfolded: 92.1 × 21.7 × 0.9 in (2340 x 552 x 25 mm) |
Folded: 24 x 21 x 1.4 in (610 x 535 x 35 mm) Unfolded: 48 x 21 x 0.2 in (1220 x 535 x 5 mm) |
|
Weight |
14.1 lbs (6.4±0.3 kg) |
10.33 lbs (4.69 kg) |
|
Solar Cells |
Monocrystalline Silicon Solar Cells |
Monocrystalline Silicon Solar Cells |
|
Compatible With |
Explorer 3000 Pro: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 2000 Plus: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 2000 Pro: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 1500 Pro: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 1500: Up to 2 Pcs Explorer 1000: Up to 1 Pc Explorer 1000 Plus: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 500: Up to 1 Pc Explorer 300: Up to 1 Pc Explorer 240: Up to 1 Pc |
Explorer 3000 Pro: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 2000 Plus: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 2000 Pro: Up to 6 Pcs(with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 1500 Pro: Up to 6 Pcs (with 2 solar connectors) Explorer 1500: Up to 2 Pcs Explorer 1000: Up to 2 Pcs Explorer 1000 Plus: Up to 2 Pcs Explorer 500: Up to 1 Pc Explorer 300: Up to 1 Pc Explorer 240: Up to 1 Pc |
Solar Panel Calculation FAQs
How to calculate energy production per PV module?
The simple formula to calculate energy production per PV module:
E = A × r × H × PR
Where,
E = Energy (kWh)
A = Total area of the solar panel (m2)
r = Solar panel yield (%)
H = Annual average solar radiation on panels
PR = Performance Ratio (default value = 0.75)
Note: This is a general calculation, and the values can vary depending on the brand of the solar panel.
How to calculate the payback time of a solar panel?
The simple formula for payback time solar panel calculation is as follows:
Solar payback period = Total investment ÷ savings per year.
Suppose you've invested $12,000 in the solar system and you save $1200 per year; the payback period will be $12000 ÷ $1200 = 10 years.
How do I calculate my solar panel output?
If you want to calculate the solar panel output, multiply the Standard Test Ratings with peak sun hours in a day and 75%.
Formula: Solar Panel Output = STC Rating (in watts) × Peak Sun Hours in a Day × 75% (Daily watt hours)
With this formula, it is easy to calculate the energy production of PV panels in a week, month, and year.
Suppose you live in an area that receives around 5 hours of sunlight on average, and the solar panel has a rating of 200W. The solar panel output can be calculated as 5H × 200W × 0.75 = 750 daily watt-hours.
How can I measure solar panel output?
A solar panel rating represents the peak output of a solar power panel in watts, typically under the peak sun hours. Solar panel wattage indicates the maximum energy production when exposed to direct sunlight at 1000 watts per square meter.
Here's an example: The Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels have a 100W rated power output. Let us say you get 4 hours of peak sunlight hours daily. The solar panel output can be measured by using the formula:
Output = 100W rated power × 4 daily peak sunlight hours × 0.75 = 300Wh.
Final Thoughts
Solar panel calculation does not have to be daunting when you switch to solar energy. Simple measures can help you determine the size, cost, and efficiency of the solar power panels available on the market. If you are still confused about which solar panels to choose, consider the different Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels models.
You can choose the right type of solar power panel depending on your power needs, budget, and preferences. Make sure to purchase a Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station in addition to solar panels that can help you charge all your electrical appliances.
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