🧮 Solar System Sizing

 

 

Sizing your solar system is easier than you think!

 

We’ve created a simple 4-step guide to help you size a solar systems for your home or business. Check out this post and start your journey towards energy independence:

 

Step 1: Calculate your ZESCO/Power usage – Review your electricity bill to see your average monthly consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

  • Look at the last twelwe (12) months of Zesco usage

  • Daily kWh = Monthly kWh / 30 days

  • Peak sun hours in Zambia = 6-7 hous

  • Daily kWh / Peak sun hours = Total Wattage

 

       Example: 36 kWh / 6 sun hours = 6,000W or 6kW

 

Step 2: Determine the number of Solar Modules(Panels) – Use the formula to calculate the number of solar module(panels) required.

  • Total kW needed / Panel wattage = Number of panels

 

        Example: 6000W / 400W Panel = 15 Panels

 

Step 3: Include the battery backup – Use the formula to figure out how many batteries your system needs.

  • (Daily usage x Desired run hours) / Battery capacity = Number of batteries

 

        Example: (1200W * 12 hours) / 4800Wh = 3 Batteries 

 

Step 4: Size your inverter correctly – Pick the right size solar inverter for your system.

  • Match your inverter size to your systems output (in kW)

 

Pro Tips:

  • Consult a solar professional for precise calculation.

  • Facture in future energy needs.

  • Plan for day with poor sun conditions.

  • Discharging a battery completely shortens its lifespan.

 

We will cover more advance concepts such as a batteries Depth of Discharge (DoD), Production Factors, Roof Orientation and Roof Tilt in a future blog.