Energy output of solar PV systems

Each solar PV panel is rated on its peak electrical output. For example, a panel with a 75 watts (W) peak rating (75 Wp) will have an output of 75 W under test conditions. A well placed panel usually generates 2.5 to 5 times its rated power output. So a 1 kWp panel can produce 2.5 kWh (kilowatt hours) to 5 kWh per day, or between 880 kWh and 1750 kWh per year.

Panels are usually available from 5 Wp to 300 Wp. A typical domestic solar PV system would be 1,500 Wp to 3,000 Wp, so you’ll have to buy a number of panels and connect them in an array to get the energy output that you need.