The right number of solar panels is determined by more than roof size. A useful design starts with how much electricity the property uses, when it uses it and what loads may be added in the future.
Start with electricity consumption
Recent power bills or interval data provide a better starting point than floor area or a standard panel package. We look at annual consumption as well as when electricity is used during the day.
Then look at the roof
Orientation, pitch, shading, roof shape, obstructions and usable area all influence how many panels can be placed effectively. A large roof is not automatically a good solar roof if the useful faces are heavily shaded or poorly oriented.
Panel wattage is only one part of the answer
Higher-wattage panels can reduce the number of modules needed for a given array capacity, but panel dimensions, roof geometry, inverter architecture and electrical limits still matter.
Future loads can change the design
If an EV, hot-water heat pump, spa, workshop load, home extension or additional heat-pump system is likely, tell us before the array is finalised. Designing only around today's power bill can understate future demand.
See how EV charging can affect solar sizing →
Battery plans matter too
A battery can change how much daytime generation is stored instead of exported. The useful solar-array size and battery capacity should be considered together rather than as separate purchases.
Network export is not the same as solar system size
An export limit controls how much power can be sent to the network at a given time. It does not necessarily mean the solar array itself must be the same size. System controls, household load and battery storage can affect the final design, subject to network approval and equipment capability.
Model the property before choosing a panel count
Revolve uses a digital property model to assess roof geometry, shade context and panel placement before recommending an array.
See how we design solar systems in 3D →
