Solar system size guide
Use the table below to get an idea of the size of a system that will be suitable for your household.
System Size (kWp) | Couple 1 1-2 | Young Family2 2-3 | Family3 3-4 | Family4 + Pool or home office full aircon | Energy Generated per year (kWhr) Approx. | Savings in your Electricity bill* per year |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1.0 | / | 1,300 | $500 | |||
1.5 | / | / | 2,200 | $750 | ||
2 | / | 2,900 | $1,000 | |||
3 | / | / | 4,000 | $1,500 | ||
5 | / | / | 7,250 | $2,550 | ||
6 | / | / | 8,750 | $3,000 | ||
10 | / | 14,500 | $5,000 |
* Based on average electricity cost of $0.35 cents / kWHr, 5.1hr sun per day.
1 Typical working couple with usual home appliances not air conditioning.
2 Typical family 1-2 young children with usual home appliances not air conditioning.
3 Typical family 3-4 children, light air conditioning use.
4 Typically large family or heavy users with air conditioning or swimming pool.
FAQs about solar system sizes for your home
Your questions about MPV Solar answered.
What factors determine the size of the solar system I need for my home?
The size of the solar system you need depends on your energy consumption, roof space, budget, and local solar insolation (sunlight exposure).
How do I calculate my energy needs for solar?
Review your electricity bills from the past year to find your average monthly usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This will help determine the size of the solar system required to meet your needs. MPV Solar can help you with this process.
What is the average size of a residential solar system?
Most residential solar systems range from 4 kW to 10 kW, depending on the home’s energy needs and available roof space.
Can I design a solar system smaller than my energy needs?
Yes, but you’ll still need to account for energy consumption by relying on the grid for additional electricity, which can reduce your savings.
How much space do I need on my roof for a solar system?
On average, a 5 kW solar system requires about 300 square feet of roof space, but this can vary based on the panel efficiency.
What happens if I install a solar system that is too large for my home?
If your solar system is larger than your energy needs, you’ll produce excess energy, which may be fed back to the grid. Policies vary by location on compensation for surplus energy.
Are there minimum solar system sizes for eligibility in rebate programs?
Some government incentives or rebate programs may have minimum size requirements, so check local guidelines for specific regulations.
How does orientation and tilt of my roof affect solar system size?
Roof orientation and tilt can impact the efficiency of solar panels, potentially requiring a larger system to achieve your desired energy output.
What is net metering, and how does it relate to solar system size?
Net metering allows homeowners with solar systems to sell excess energy back to the grid. The size of your system may affect how much energy you can export and receive credit for.
Do I need to consider future energy needs when sizing my solar system?
Yes, if you anticipate an increase in energy usage due to factors like adding electric vehicles or expanding your home, it’s wise to factor that into the size of your solar system.


MPV Solar is committed to providing industry-leading solar energy solutions across Sydney, backed by a proven track record of successfully completing over 5,000 projects. As a family-owned business, we prioritise personalised service and truly value our clients, ensuring that each system is tailored to meet your unique energy needs.
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Get in Touch
MPV Solar
Unit 3, 43-51 College St,
Gladesville NSW 2111
info@mpvsolar.com.au
(02) 9817 0333
Monday – Friday
8:30 – 5:00pm