When the cost of solar energy decreases and the cost of power increases, more and more homeowners are turning to solar panels to provide their homes with the energy it needs. The first question they ask is, "How much solar power do I need to power my home?" The answer to that is determined by a few variables, which are the amount of electricity you consume, the efficiency of the panels, and how much sunlight in your area. If you know the cost of solar power and how many panels you'll require, you'll be able to design the correct system.
Factors that decide how many solar panels you will need
To decide how many solar panels you'll need to run your home, consider a variety of factors:
Daily use of electricity
The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) says the average American home uses about 30 kWh of electricity each day. That being said, every home is different, so it makes sense to review your most recent electric bill to establish a more accurate figure.
Sunshine hours in your area
Peak sunshine hours are the daylight hours during which the sun has enough strength to generate lots of energy. Most areas of the United States experience 4 to 6 peak sunshine hours per day. We'll assume 4.5 peak sunshine hours per day for the sake of calculation.
Solar panel power
Solar panel power varies, with modern residential panels between 250 watts and 450 watts. By 2025, it is expected that the majority of utilized panels will have an average of approximately 400 watts of power.
Quick Formula: Estimating the Number of Panels
Use this formula to estimate how many solar panels you'll need:
Daily Electricity Usage (Wh) / Peak Sun Hours / Panel Wattage = Number of Panels
Math example
Daily electricity use: 30 kWh = 30,000 Wh
Peak sunshine hours: 4.5 hours
Panel power: 400 watts
Math calculation:
30,000 Wh ÷ 4.5 hours ÷ 400 watts = 16.66 panels
For comparison, the average American home will use about 17 solar panels.
Solar Panel Cost in 2025
Now that you understand how many panels you might need, the next question is: How much does solar cost?
As of 2025:
Average cost per watt: Home solar systems cost between $2.50 and $3.00.
Total system cost: A typical 6.8 kW system (17 × 400 watt panels) can cost between $17,000 and $20,000 pre-tax credits.
After-tax credits: Once you've taken the 30% federal solar tax credit, it lowers to approximately $11,900 to $14,000.
To put this into perspective, this investment will save you tens of thousands of dollars over the span of 25 years.
Additional Considerations
1. Roof Space and Orientation
Your roof must have enough space and preferably face south (in the northern hemisphere) to maximize solar panel effectiveness.
2. Battery Storage
Pair solar panels with a home energy storage system so you will have electricity even in the event of a power outage or nighttime. Home energy storage systems like lithium-ion batteries are becoming popular.
3. Net Metering Benefits
In other places, net metering allows you to sell back surplus electricity into the grid, further reducing your electricity bill.
Plan Your Solar Future with Huijue Technology Group
Solar panels installed in 2025 will not just pay for themselves, but also be environmentally friendly. But you must employ the appropriate equipment and system size to make it happen. Huijue Technology Group is the expert.
With more than 20 years' experience in energy solutions, Huijue can provide:
Customized solar + energy storage systems: tailored to fit your needs.
Advanced home energy storage technology: always power-ready.
Smart EMS (Energy Management System): real-time monitoring and control of energy usage.
One-stop service: from evaluation, and installation to maintenance, all in one package.
Whether you're powering a small home or preparing to lead a completely self-sufficient energy life, Huijue can provide quality and revolutionary options.
Start today and embark on a solar journey with Huijue and power the future, home by home.
