How to choose a solar panel system
When planning a home solar electric system, there are a few things to consider. The first is the size of your
array. Solar panels vary in size from around 2 square feet up to 30 or more. Make sure you have an
accurate estimate of how much solar power your home needs and choose the right system size. Systems
rated at 10 kilowatts (kW) or less are common and can supply enough electricity to light a small room or
two, such as an office or bonus room. Systems rated at 20 kW or more may be able to power an entire
house.
The next consideration is your location: Sun angles in different parts of the country affect the amount of
electricity generated by a solar panel system. Southern states get the most sunlight and produce far more
electricity than northern states, so it’s important to select a system that can cover your entire property.
System sizing also changes with latitude; in the north, for example, you might need larger panels to
generate as much power as you would in the south.
Once you have determined your array size and location, another important decision is whether you want to
purchase or lease your solar system. Leasing allows you to pay for energy over time rather than buying it all
at once, which can reduce upfront costs. However, leasing typically has higher interest rates than buying
does, so it’s important to compare both options carefully before making a decision.