For those living in RVs or remote areas, off-grid solar NZ solutions offer a great way to achieve energy independence. To choose the right off-grid solar system, you need to understand your daily power usage. Here’s a simple guide to help you calculate your system size.

Step 1: Calculate Your Daily Power Usage for Off-Grid Solar System

First, figure out how much electricity you use each day. Calculate the energy consumption of your devices based on their wattage and usage time.

•Refrigerator: 100W, running 24 hours → 2.4 kWh

•Lightbulb: 10W, used for 4 hours → 0.04 kWh

•Laptop: 50W, used for 3 hours → 0.15 kWh

Total Daily Usage: 2.4 + 0.04 + 0.15 = 2.59 kWh/day

Step 2: Choosing the Right Solar Panels for Off-Grid Power

Next, find out the size of your solar system. If you get 5 hours of sunlight per day, use this formula:

Solar Panel Capacity (kW) = Daily Power Usage (kWh) / Sunlight Hours (hours)

Example:

Solar Panel Capacity = 2.59 / 5 = 0.52 kW

If using 300W panels, you’ll need about 2 panels (0.52 kW ÷ 0.3 kW/panel).

Looking for high-quality solar panels? Explore our latest solar products.

Step 3: Selecting the Best Battery Storage for Off-Grid Solar System

Since solar only works during the day, you’ll need battery storage. Aim for 2-3 days’ worth of power.

For 2.59 kWh/day, storing 2 days of energy requires:

Battery Capacity = 2.59 x 2 = 5.18 kWh

Consider a battery with around 5.18 kWh storage (a 6-7 kWh lithium battery for safety).

Check out our lithium battery selection for reliable energy storage solutions.

Step 4: Considering Energy Losses in Your Off-Grid Solar Setup

Solar systems are typically 20% less efficient due to losses. So, add 20% to your solar panel capacity.

0.52 kW x 1.2 = 0.624 kW

This means you need a solar system with about 0.624 kW, or 2 panels of 300W.

Conclusion

By calculating your daily usage and accounting for sunlight and efficiency, you can easily determine the right solar system and battery storage for your off-grid solar lifestyle. We hope this guide helps you design your ideal solar energy system. If you need more assistance, feel free to contact us!

Need a complete off-grid solar NZ solution? Browse our solar RV kits/ solar house kits and accessories or contact us for expert advice!