Solar Pv Panel Size
Solar PV Panel Size: A Comprehensive Guide for UK Property Professionals
As the UK accelerates its transition towards a low-carbon future, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have become a cornerstone of sustainable property management. Whether you’re a landlord, property manager, estate agent, or business owner, understanding solar PV panel size is crucial for effective compliance, energy efficiency, and maximising property value. At Eco Approach Ltd, we specialise in guiding property professionals through compliance and safety requirements, and we know that selecting the right size solar PV system is key to meeting both regulatory and sustainability goals.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about solar PV panel size—from the basics of panel dimensions to system sizing for different property types, and how these choices impact compliance, EPC ratings, and overall property performance in the UK.
What Does “Solar PV Panel Size” Mean?
When professionals in the built environment refer to “solar PV panel size,” they are usually talking about two related, but distinct, aspects:
1. Physical Dimensions: The actual length, width, and thickness of an individual solar panel.
2. Power Output (Wattage): The amount of electricity a panel can generate, typically measured in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW).
Both factors are essential when planning a solar installation, as they affect roof space requirements, installation costs, energy generation, and compliance with UK regulations.
Typical Solar PV Panel Sizes in the UK
1. Physical Dimensions
Most modern residential and commercial solar PV panels in the UK are based on standardised sizes to facilitate installation and compatibility. The most common panel sizes are:
– 60-cell panels:
– Approx. 1.65m x 1.0m (about 1.65 square metres)
– Typical for residential roofs due to manageable size and weight
– 72-cell panels:
– Approx. 2.0m x 1.0m (about 2.0 square metres)
– Often used for larger commercial installations
Panel thickness usually ranges from 35mm to 40mm. The weight can vary between 18kg and 25kg per panel.
2. Power Output
– Residential panels:
– 350W to 450W per panel (as of 2024)
– Commercial panels:
– 400W to 600W per panel, sometimes higher for utility-scale projects
Newer, high-efficiency panels can deliver more power in the same physical footprint, which is a significant advantage for properties with limited roof space.
How to Determine the Right Solar PV System Size for Your Property
1. Assess Your Energy Needs
The optimal system size depends on the property’s typical electricity consumption. For most UK homes, the average annual usage is around 3,800 kWh. For commercial properties, this can vary widely.
Example:
– A 4kW system (about 10-12 panels) typically generates 3,400–4,000 kWh per year in the UK.
2. Evaluate Roof Space and Orientation
Not every property has the same roof size or orientation. South-facing roofs with minimal shading are ideal, but east/west orientations can also be effective.
– Roof area required:
– Each 1kW of solar PV typically needs 5–7m² of roof space.
– A standard 4kW system requires about 20–28m².
3. Consider Compliance and Planning Regulations
– Permitted Development:
– Most UK domestic solar PV installations fall under permitted development rights, but there are exceptions (e.g., listed buildings, conservation areas).
– Building Regulations:
– Installations must comply with Part P (Electrical Safety) and MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) standards.
– EPC Requirements:
– Solar PV can improve a property’s EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating, which is increasingly important for landlords and property managers.
4. Budget and Payback
Larger systems cost more upfront but may offer better long-term savings and improved property value. It’s essential to balance initial investment against expected energy generation and compliance benefits.
Solar PV Panel Size and UK Compliance
1. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Solar PV can significantly boost a property’s EPC rating, helping landlords and property managers meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). The right system size maximises this benefit.
– Example:
– A well-sized solar PV system can move a property from an EPC rating of D to C or higher, future-proofing against stricter regulations.
2. Fire and Electrical Safety
– All installations must be carried out by qualified professionals and comply with UK wiring regulations (BS 7671).
– Oversized or poorly planned systems can overload circuits or create fire risks, underlining the importance of professional assessment.
3. Grid Connection
– Systems above a certain size (typically 3.68kW per phase) require permission from the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
– Commercial properties with larger systems must factor in grid export limitations and potential upgrades.
Solar PV Panel Size for Different Property Types
Residential Properties
– Most common system size: 3–4kW (8–12 panels)
– Typical roof area needed: 20–28m²
– Annual output: 3,000–4,000 kWh
Commercial Properties
– System size: 10kW to 250kW+ (25–600+ panels)
– Roof area required: 70m² to 1,000m²+
– Annual output: 10,000–250,000+ kWh
Apartment Blocks and HMOs
– Shared or communal systems can be sized based on total building consumption.
– Roof space may be a limiting factor, but high-efficiency panels can help maximise output.
High-Efficiency Panels: Do They Make a Difference?
Yes. High-efficiency panels (over 21%) produce more power per square metre, allowing you to install more capacity on limited roof space. This is especially valuable for urban properties or where planning restrictions limit the number of panels.
How Eco Approach Ltd Can Help
At Eco Approach Ltd, we understand that selecting the right solar PV panel size is about more than just maximising energy output—it’s about ensuring compliance, safety, and long-term value for property professionals.
We offer:
– Comprehensive property assessments: Including EPCs, electrical safety, and fire risk evaluations.
– Guidance on solar PV system sizing: Tailored to your property’s unique needs and compliance requirements.
– Coordination with qualified installers: Ensuring all work meets MCS, Part P, and other regulatory standards.
– Ongoing compliance management: We help you stay ahead of regulatory changes and maintain your properties’ legal and energy performance standards.
Conclusion
Choosing the right solar PV panel size is a critical decision for UK property professionals. It affects not only energy savings but also compliance, safety, and property value. By considering your property’s energy needs, available roof space, regulatory requirements, and the latest panel technologies, you can make an informed choice that supports both sustainability and compliance.
For expert support in all aspects of property compliance—including solar PV assessments and installation guidance—Eco Approach Ltd is your nationwide partner. We simplify regulatory compliance, reduce risk, and help you future-proof your property portfolio for the evolving UK energy landscape.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you optimise your solar PV investment and ensure ongoing compliance across your properties.
Eco Approach Ltd – Your single, reliable partner for property compliance and sustainability in the UK.