Solar Sizing Calculator

---

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of how to use the online calculator to estimate the size of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system needed based on your monthly power bill and to project potential savings over a 25-year period. Here’s how to use the calculator:

• Input Field: You will find a field labeled "Input Average Monthly Power Bill (kWh)."
• Action: Enter the average amount of electricity (in kilowatt-hours, kWh) that your household or business consumes per month.

• Button: Once you’ve entered your monthly power consumption, click the "Calculate" button.
• Output: The calculator will display:
  • The required solar PV system size in kilowatts (kW), which indicates how large a system you would need to cover your energy consumption.
  • A bar chart showing the estimated monthly solar energy production in kWh for each month, reflecting seasonal variations in sun exposure.

• Monthly Savings: Below the bar chart, the calculator will display the average monthly savings, calculated based on the estimated monthly solar production multiplied by the average utility rate in Georgia.
• Total Savings: It will also show the total projected savings over a 25-year period, adjusted for an average annual inflation rate on the utility rate.

This calculator makes several assumptions to estimate the solar PV system size and potential savings:

• Sunlight Exposure: Uses average daily peak sun hours specific to Georgia, USA. The actual sun exposure can vary significantly based on exact location, shading, and climate conditions.
• System Efficiency: Assumes a system efficiency factor (the proportion of sunlight that is converted into usable electricity) of 80%. Efficiency can vary based on the technology of the panels and the system’s installation.
• Utility Rates: Calculations for savings are based on an average utility rate of $0.12 per kWh, which may differ according to local rates and does not take into account potential future rate increases beyond the annual inflation adjustment.
• Inflation Rate: Assumes a constant annual inflation rate of 3% on utility rates, which may not reflect actual future inflation.
• Durability and Maintenance: Assumes that the solar PV system will operate at a consistent output level for 25 years without significant degradation or need for major maintenance.

The results provided by this calculator are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a final assessment or a commitment. Actual system performance and savings will depend on several factors including but not limited to geographic location, system design, system condition, and changes in utility rates. Users are advised to consult with professional solar installers and financial advisors to obtain a precise evaluation tailored to their specific circumstances.