What Is the Ideal Number of Solar Panels for a Home in Sydney?

The Big Question: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

What is the ideal number of solar panels for my home?

One of the most common questions Sydney homeowners ask is: “What is the ideal number of solar panels for my home?”

The answer depends on your electricity usage, roof size, and whether you plan to add a solar battery. At MPV Solar, we design tailored systems to maximise savings while ensuring your panels generate enough power for your lifestyle—today and in the future.

Average Number of Solar Panels for Sydney Homes

Most Sydney homes choose systems between 6.6kW and 10kW. Here’s a guide to how many solar panels that usually means:

6.6kW system → 16–18 panels (370–415W each)
8kW system → 20–22 panels
10kW system → 24–27 panels

This assumes modern, high-efficiency panels from trusted brands like Canadian Solar, Jinko, or LG. Explore our trusted and quality solar brands.

Factors That Affect the Ideal Number of Solar Panels

Your Electricity Usage: A larger household may need 20+ panels, while a smaller home may only need 14–16.
Roof Size & Direction: North-facing panels are most efficient, but East/West layouts still work well.
Future Energy Needs: If you’re adding an EV charger or ducted AC, size up now.
Solar Battery Storage: More panels ensure you can fully charge your battery and still run your home.
Panel Wattage: High-watt panels generate more power per panel, reducing the total number needed.

Simple Formula to Estimate Panels

Find your average daily electricity use (in kWh).
Divide by Sydney’s average sun hours (~4.5 per day).
Divide by the watt rating of your chosen panels (e.g. 400W).

Example: If you use 25kWh/day → 25 ÷ 4.5 = 5.55kW → 5,550W ÷ 400W = ~14 panels

Why Choose MPV Solar?

At MPV Solar, we don’t use a cookie-cutter approach. Our in-house team designs and installs solar systems that suit your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

We proudly service Sydney suburbs including Chatswood, Ryde, Hunters Hill, Putney, Gladesville, Neutral Bay, and Tamarama.

Get your free solar panel assessment today and discover the ideal number of panels for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Ideal Number of Solar Panels

Get quick answers to the most common questions homeowners ask about the ideal number of solar panels, system sizing, roof space, batteries, and why MPV Solar is Sydney’s trusted choice.

How many solar panels does the average Sydney home need?

Most Sydney homes need between 16 and 24 solar panels, depending on usage and system size.

Will I need more panels if I install a solar battery?

Yes. A larger system ensures you generate enough energy to charge your battery and power your home.

Can I add more solar panels later?

Yes, but it’s usually more cost-effective to size your system correctly upfront.

What’s better: more panels or higher watt panels?

Higher watt panels are ideal for small roofs, while more panels spread across roof sections can capture sun throughout the day.

Is a 6.6kW solar system big enough for a family home?

For many households, yes. A 6.6kW system (16–18 panels) covers average daily use, but families with high energy needs may need 8–10kW.

How many panels do I need to completely eliminate my power bills?

That depends on your usage. For many Sydney families, a 10kW system (24–27 panels) plus a battery can get close to bill-free living.

How much roof space do I need for solar panels?

Each solar panel is roughly 1.7m x 1m. A typical 6.6kW system with 17 panels needs about 30m² of roof space.

How long do solar panels last?

Most modern solar panels last 25–30 years with proper installation and maintenance. Performance warranties typically guarantee at least 80% output after 25 years.

What happens if my roof is shaded?

Shading reduces efficiency, but solutions like microinverters or optimisers can minimise losses. An MPV Solar site inspection will determine the best setup.

Can I install solar panels if I plan to buy an electric vehicle (EV)?

Yes, and it’s smart to future-proof your system. Many Sydney EV owners choose a larger 8–10kW system (20–27 panels) to cover both home and charging needs.

MPV Solar is committed to providing industry-leading solar energy solutions across Sydney, backed by a proven track record of successfully completing over 5,000 projects. As a family-owned business, we prioritise personalised service and truly value our clients, ensuring that each system is tailored to meet your unique energy needs.