Not only can solar help make your home more energy-efficient, it can also be fairly cost-effective in the long run. But with so many solar panel sizes, how do you know which would be suitable for your home?
This Canstar Blue guide explores 500 watt solar panels and whether they’re the best fit for your needs.
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Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3900kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4600kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
500 watt solar panel size and dimensions
A solar system’s size is determined by its power output, which is measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). The amount of electricity that is actually generated is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh).
The average individual residential solar panel produces approximately 370w. A 500 watt or 500w solar panel has both a larger output and larger physical size; while Solar Choice cites residential solar panel dimensions generally ranging from 1.6m x 1m to 1.7m x 1m, 500w panels may be as large as 2.4m x 1.2m.
Due to their larger size and capacity, 500w solar panels are primarily made for commercial needs, or for those who have plenty of roof space. If you’re looking to get solar on your commercial property, check out the Canstar Blue guide on commercial solar power to find out what else you’ll need to consider.
How much can a 500 watt solar panel produce in Australia?
As its name suggests, a 500w solar panel can produce up to 500 watts in direct sunlight, but doesn’t always do so. On average, a 500w solar panel can produce between 2-4kWh of power per day. However, there are multiple factors that will determine your solar panel’s energy output throughout the day, or over the course of a year.
Three contributing factors you’ll need to consider when determining how much electricity a solar system of this size can produce are:
Climate and location: You’ll need to consider your local climate to determine how much energy a 500w solar panel can produce. Solar panels work best in sunny conditions, so if you live in an area with frequent cloudy days, you may not get as much energy production from your system.
Roof space and positioning: The positioning of your roof is important as solar panels need to be installed in a direction that maximises the amount of sunlight they receive. You’ll also need to ensure your panels aren’t obscured by nearby trees or other structures.
Solar panel make and model: Solar panel efficiency will play a big part as to how much energy they can create. Solar technology continues to progress, but you should research the make, model, efficiency specs and degradation rate before settling on a particular solar panel type.
By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your solar system will produce enough energy to power your home.
Where can I buy a 500 watt solar panel?
At the time of writing, only three brands offer 500w solar panels in Australia: Trina Solar, LONGi, SunPower and Jinka Solar. As relatively new innovations in the solar market, and made primarily for the smaller commercial market, 500w solar panels are a bit more niche than traditional residential solar panels, meaning there isn’t a wide variety of options available.
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Is a 500 watt solar panel worth buying?
The size of your solar panels can be a crucial part in how effective your system is, and how much you can save on your energy bill, but whether a 500w solar panel is the best fit for you is entirely dependent upon your circumstances. If you have a smaller roof, or a roof that only gets a finite amount of sunlight, a 500w solar panel may not be the best purchase. However, if you have a larger residential or commercial property, then a 500w solar panel may be a good fit.
Solar systems are an investment, so it’s wise to research before settling on a system size and installation. This way you’ll know where you stand in terms of price and if there are any potential issues. Compare Australia’s best-rated solar installers below.
Original reporting by Dean Heckscher
Image Source: bombermoon/Shutterstock.com
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